Wolves vs Aston Villa Preview

• Draw or Villa win
• Cunha to score or assist

Wolves and Aston Villa go head-to-head at Molineux in a Midlands showdown that has gained intensity in recent years.

With both teams in contrasting form, this fixture could have major implications at both ends of the Premier League table.

Wolves: Sliding Into Relegation Trouble

After an encouraging start under Vítor Pereira (W2, D1), Wolves have now lost four consecutive league games, dropping into the relegation zone.

Each of those defeats came against top-six sides, but the alarming defensive statistics—52 goals conceded in the league already—suggest deeper issues. This marks Wolves’ worst defensive per-game record in a league season since 1932/33.

Their struggles at Molineux are equally concerning. Wolves could lose three consecutive home Premier League matches without scoring for the first time since September 2021.

If they are to break that trend, they must capitalise on Villa’s vulnerabilities, particularly given that five of the last seven head-to-head encounters have seen both teams find the net.

Matheus Cunha, who scored in the reverse fixture (a 3-1 loss), will be crucial for Wolves. He remains one of their few reliable attacking outlets in a side that has found goals hard to come by.

Aston Villa: European High, Domestic Concerns

Aston Villa come into this clash buoyed by a 4-2 Champions League win over Celtic that secured their spot in the last 16.

However, Unai Emery’s side has struggled to maintain consistency in the Premier League immediately after European matches, winning just once in their last seven attempts (D3, L3).

That sole victory, ironically, came against Wolves earlier this season. However, their away record raises concerns—just one win in their last seven league games on the road (D1, L5). Only the bottom-four clubs, including Wolves, have conceded more goals away from home, exposing a key weakness that the hosts could look to exploit.

Morgan Rogers will be expected to step up in attack with Jhon Durán reportedly close to a move to Al-Nassr.

The young winger is fresh off a historic performance in Europe, becoming the first player in UCL history to score twice within the opening five minutes, eventually netting a hat-trick. His link-up play with Ollie Watkins will be crucial if Villa are to leave Molineux with three points.

Key Battles

Matheus Cunha vs Villa’s Defence

Cunha scored Wolves’ only goal in the reverse fixture and will be their main attacking outlet. Given Villa’s shaky away defence, his movement and pressing could cause problems.

Morgan Rogers vs Wolves Defence

Fresh from his Champions League heroics, Rogers will be tasked with providing width and creativity. Wolves Defence will need to stay disciplined to prevent him from exploiting space down the left.

Tactical Insights

Wolves’ Approach

Pereira will likely adopt a compact defensive shape, aiming to frustrate Villa and hit them on the counter. Wolves’ defensive frailties mean they can’t afford to go behind early, so a structured midfield block will be essential.

Aston Villa’s Strategy

Villa will seek to control possession and break Wolves down with patient build-up play. Their high defensive line has been exposed in away matches, so Emery may look for a more balanced approach to avoid counter-attacks.

Head-to-Head Record

• Recent Meetings: Villa won the reverse fixture 3-1, but Wolves have had the edge at home, losing just once in their last five meetings at Molineux (W3, D1).
• Scoring Trends: Five of the last seven H2Hs have seen both teams score.

Predictions and Final Thoughts

Villa’s European success could give them momentum, but their away form remains a concern. Wolves, despite their poor run, have a good recent home record against Villa and will see this as a must-win game in their relegation battle.

Predicted Scoreline: Wolves 1-2 Aston Villa

Expect a competitive battle, with Villa’s attacking quality proving the difference. Morgan Rogers could make a major impact, while Wolves will need Cunha and their midfield to step up if they are to get a result.

Conclusion

This Midlands clash could be pivotal for both teams. Wolves desperately need points to escape the relegation zone, while Villa must improve their away form to maintain their European ambitions.

With both sides having vulnerabilities at the back, this should be an exciting and hard-fought contest at Molineux.

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Wolves v Aston Villa, 2024/25 | Premier League