Rayan Aït-Nouri was the star of the show as Wolverhampton Wanderers edged past Bristol City in a thrilling FA Cup clash, securing a 2-1 victory. All the drama unfolded in an electrifying first half, with moments of brilliance at both ends of the pitch.
The match got off to a rapid start, with Wolves asserting early dominance. Their breakthrough came in the 10th minute following a poorly cleared corner. João Gomes, sharp and composed, gathered the loose ball and floated an inviting cross toward the far post. Aït-Nouri, showing impeccable awareness, pounced on the opportunity with a stooping header, bundling the ball into the net to give Wolves a 1-0 lead.
Buoyed by the opener, Wolves continued to press and doubled their advantage in the 21st minute. The second goal was a well-executed team effort.
However, Bristol City refused to back down. On the stroke of halftime, Scott Twine produced a moment of pure magic to haul his side back into contention. Awarded a free kick from 25 yards out, Twine, known for his set-piece mastery, delivered an absolute stunner. Curling a sublime right-footed strike over the Wolves wall and past the outstretched Sam Johnstone, Twine’s effort was a goal worthy of any highlight reel. It was a strike that evoked memories of David Beckham at his best, leaving fans and pundits alike in awe.
Despite Twine’s brilliance, Wolves held firm in the second half, managing the game with discipline and composure. Bristol City pushed for an equalizer, but Wolves’ defense, marshaled expertly by their backline, stood resolute.
In the end, Aït-Nouri’s early heroics proved decisive as Wolves advanced to the next round of the FA Cup. For Bristol City, Twine’s free kick was a bittersweet reminder of what might have been, but it will undoubtedly go down as one of the tournament’s standout moments.
As the final whistle blew, Wolves celebrated a hard-fought victory.