Wolverhampton Wanderers were seconds away from a famous victory at Tottenham Hotspur before João Palhinha’s 94th-minute strike denied them all three points. Santiago Bueno’s first-ever goal for Wolves had given the visitors the lead, and Vitor Pereira’s men looked set to secure a memorable win until late drama snatched it away.
Despite the heartbreak of conceding so late, Pereira reserved special praise for midfielder Marshall Munetsi, who he described as “an animal” for his relentless work rate and physicality. The Wolves manager told reporters that the Zimbabwean epitomises the values he wants to instil across the squad.
Pereira on Munetsi: “Like an animal”
Munetsi covered every blade of grass at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, playing a pivotal role in disrupting Spurs’ midfield and driving Wolves forward.
“Munetsi, I tell you… when we look for footballers, technique is one thing, but football is not only about technique. Football is about tactical spirit, physicality; Munetsi is like an animal. Running and running and running.” — Vitor Pereira
The Wolves boss added: “If he plays five minutes, he gives us everything. If he plays 90 minutes or he plays extra time, I know what I can expect from him. For us, this is the kind of player – a very honest player giving everything for the club – that we need to support.”
Embodying Wolves’ identity
Asked if Munetsi represents the “identity” Pereira wants his team to play with, the head coach was emphatic. “Of course, of course. We need it. I like to see good football, I enjoy football. But, I enjoy also the spirit. When they go there and they fight and I go to the fight with this kind of player. Today, we went to the fight with fighters, with ambition, personality and just missing the last minute. But it’s football.”
Pereira praised his squad’s fighting spirit, pointing to the performances of Bueno, Sam Johnstone and Ladislav Krejci as further positives. Bueno, in particular, was outstanding at both ends of the pitch, scoring the opener and defending doggedly before Spurs’ late equaliser.
Wolves’ next challenge
Wolves will look to build on this encouraging display when they host Brighton at Molineux on Sunday, October 5. The Seagulls arrive buoyed by their 3-1 win over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, making them tough opponents, but Pereira believes his team can take confidence from their resilience in north London.
A first league victory of the campaign remains elusive, but the signs of progress under Pereira are growing clearer — and with Munetsi at the heart of midfield, Wolves appear to have found a player who perfectly reflects their manager’s demands.
Analyst verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Pereira’s praise for Munetsi is well-earned. “Wolves need players who blend technical ability with sheer determination, and Munetsi gives them that. He provides energy, tactical discipline, and presence. Pereira clearly sees him as a cornerstone of this new Wolves identity.”
He added: “Yes, the late goal stings, but Wolves were adventurous, organised, and competitive against one of the league’s strongest sides. That’s a foundation to build on.”
Key insights
- Wolves held to a 1-1 draw at Spurs after conceding in the 94th minute.
- Santiago Bueno scored his first Wolves goal with a header.
- Vitor Pereira hailed Marshall Munetsi as “like an animal” for his tireless display.
- Manager says Munetsi embodies the identity and fighting spirit he wants.
- Wolves host Brighton next, seeking their first league victory.
What’s next for Wolves?
With Brighton up next, Wolves face another stern test, but Pereira’s message was clear: fight, identity and togetherness can carry them forward. The Seagulls will pose a different challenge, but Wolves now look capable of competing with confidence.
👉 Can Wolves turn spirited performances into their first Premier League win under Vitor Pereira against Brighton?
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