Wolves – Brighton : Preview & Prediction
Eight wins and just two defeats in their last 12 games in all competitions (E2) for Wolverhampton Wanderers mean morale is high at Molineux, with manager Gary O’Neil looking to plot a route to his second FA Cup quarter-final in 21 years. To achieve that feat, the Englishman will need to end Wolves’ five-game winless run against upcoming opponents Brighton & Hove Albion (E1, P4), which includes a 4-1 defeat the last time these two sides met in the West Midlands.
However, their most recent meeting overall was a goalless draw in the Premier League last month, while Wolves have scored at least twice against all four clubs they have faced in both domestic cups so far this season. Moreover, on the last seven occasions on which O’Neil’s side have scored first, they have won, so opening the scoring could prove vital here.
Compared to Wolves, Brighton have had more success in the FA Cup recently, reaching the semi-finals both last year and in the 2018/19 campaign. Two defeats in 11 appearances (G5, E4) underline how difficult it is to face the Seagulls, but it has been somewhat frustrating for manager Roberto De Zerbi, given that his side have not recorded back-to-back wins since the end of November.
If you want to see an entertaining away side, Brighton could be one to consider, as all five of their away games since the 0-0 draw with West Ham United have produced at least three goals each. With the UEFA Europa League participant scoring five goals against Sheffield United on two separate occasions and four against Stoke City in that period, as well as being thrashed 4-0 by Luton Town, you never really know what you’re going to get from De Zerbi’s side.
Players to watch: Pablo Sarabia has become a regular starter for Wolves, justifying his place in the side with the winning goal against Sheffield United on Sunday – his tenth goal contribution coming at Molineux from the 12 he has registered this season. Despite being a center back, Lewis Dunk scored his fourth goal of the campaign at the weekend – three of which were assisted by Pascal Groß.
Quick Fact: Five of Brighton’s last six games have seen a goal scored after the 80th minute.
Wolves – Brighton : Betting Tips
Wolves – Win Odds: 2.25
