Aston Villa’s recent success in the Europa Conference League has set the stage for an electrifying showdown as they head to Molineux to face Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League’s West Midlands derby this Sunday.
Match Preview
Following a dramatic victory over Zrinjski Mostar in the Europa Conference League, Aston Villa will look to carry their momentum into this highly anticipated match against Wolves, who are riding high after ending Manchester City’s perfect start to the season last weekend.
In the build-up to the clash with Manchester City, Pep Guardiola highlighted Pedro Neto and Matheus Cunha as potential threats for Wolves.
However, it was Hwang Hee-chan, humorously referred to as “the Korean guy,” who emerged as the hero by scoring the decisive goal in their victory against the champions.
Wolves celebrated Hwang’s contribution and ended Manchester City’s winning streak, bringing much-needed confidence to their 2023-24 Premier League campaign.
Despite this triumph, Wolves find themselves in a precarious position in the rankings, placed 15th and only three points clear of the relegation zone.
While Aston Villa aims to balance their Europa Conference League commitments with the Premier League, they are coming off a late victory in Europe and will strive to maintain their winning streak in the league.
Team News
Wolves will miss Jean-Ricner Bellegarde due to suspension, and they have concerns over Santiago Bueno and Hugo Bueno due to injuries.
On the other hand, Villa is dealing with various injuries, including Boubacar Kamara and Moussa Diaby, adding to their list of absentees, including Tyrone Mings and Emiliano Buendia.
Possible starting lineups
Wolverhampton Wanderers:
Sa;
Kilman, Toti, Dawson;
Semedo, Gomes, Lemina, Ait-Nouri;
Neto, Cunha, Hwang
Aston Villa:
Martinez;
Cash, Konsa, Torres, Digne;
Kamara, Luiz;
McGinn, Diaby, Zaniolo;
Watkins
Prediction
Given the midweek fixture and fitness concerns, a repeat of Villa’s remarkable performance against Brighton seems unlikely.
Wolves, benefiting from a longer recovery period, will aim to capitalize on their recent success against their West Midlands rivals.
However, Villa’s returning key players may prove decisive, enabling them to secure a fourth consecutive Premier League victory.
- We predict a score of Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-2 Aston Villa.