For our BBC Sport piece this week we take a look at how Wolves fared without talisman Matheus Cunha.
Wolves showcased their resilience and team spirit this weekend, proving they are not just reliant on star player Matheus Cunha. With him missing, the team navigated a creativity gap showing encouraging signs of unity and adaptability.
They explored alternative attacking options, leading to a well-executed team goal that underlined their ability to work cohesively under pressure. The squad also had renewed energy with a stronger press that disrupted Everton in key phases. Impressively, Wolves also dominated possession with 65.5%, their highest percentage this season and nearly 5% more than in any previous game.
In recent matches, Jean Ricner Bellegarde has been a standout performer, taking massive strides since Vitor Pereira’s arrival and growing his influence on the team. Without Cunha, Bellegarde embraced the responsibility and demonstrated his potential to be equally instrumental in Wolves’ attacking play.
Given they were facing an in-form and defensively sound Everton, Wolves might have considered a point as a respectable outcome prior to kick-off. However, as it unfolded, the game left fans with a nagging “what-if” feeling. The margins were slim and the absence of their creative talisman Cunha was felt in crucial moments.
However, looking ahead, Wolves must focus on maintaining and extending their gap from the Premier League relegation zone. Next week’s fixture against Southampton presents a critical opportunity. While no game in the Premier League is easy, this match offers Wolves the chance to build momentum. A victory surely puts us with an almost insurmountable lead.
Under Pereira, Wolves have shown they can adapt and fight as a team, but consistency will be key. Squad depth, alongside with players stepping up in Cunha’s absence, could make all the difference.
The next month is pivotal and Wolves could ensure top-flight survival or be dragged back into the relegation scrap.
