Wolverhampton Wanderers secured a thrilling victory over Brighton in a match that has now paved the way for an exciting Midlands quarter-final showdown with Coventry City. This win has sparked a wave of excitement among fans, many of whom are already envisioning themselves belting out ‘Abide With Me’ at Wembley Stadium.
Wolves’ fourth successive win was not pretty but, as against Sheffield United on Sunday, a single goal was enough to see them over the line
Wolves made four changes to their starting lineup from the Sheffield United game, as some key players were rested on the bench due to the hectic schedule this week. Manager Gary O’Neil also opted to introduce an extra man in midfield, tweaking his usual formation for added strength.
Wolves, notwithstanding their need to keep Pedro Neto and Pablo Sarabia back for the first hour, made the best possible start. Jean-Ricner Bellegarde, taking the lead upfront, swiftly moved away from Jan Paul van Hecke and dashed down the left side. When Jason Steele couldn’t hold onto his cross, Lemina was faster to snatch the loose ball than Pervis Estupiñán. Despite being seated on the ground, he coolly slotted in his fifth goal of the season.
Despite Brighton’s efforts to equalise, with Simon Adingra and Jakub Moder coming close, Wolves maintained their lead. Igor Julio’s risky pass back to his goalkeeper almost cost Brighton another goal, but a quick reaction from Jason Steele prevented disaster.
In the second half, both teams had their chances, with Facundo Buonanotte missing a golden opportunity for Brighton and Bellegarde narrowly failing to set up Lemina for a second goal. The introduction of substitutes like Danny Welbeck and Pedro Neto brought fresh energy to the game, but neither team could capitalise on their opportunities.
As the clock ticked down, both sides pushed for a decisive goal. Valentin Barco’s cross found Welbeck, but his header went over the bar. In the dying moments, the Molineux crowd rallied behind Wolves, urging them to secure the win. Despite a late chance for Steele to equalise, Wolves held on to their lead, booking their place in the next round.
Wolves fans will be concerned for Hwang Hee-chan who went down with what O’Neil described as a minor hamstring injury that will most likely rule him out of the trip to Newcastle. “I’ll be amazed if he plays Saturday,” the Wolves head coach said.
The match concluded with Wolves emerging victorious with a 1-0 win over Brighton. Lemina’s early goal proved to be the difference, as Wolves now look forward to facing Coventry City in the Quarter-Finals of the Emirates FA Cup.
