PREVIEW: Wolves vs Southampton: Prediction, Head to Head, Team News, and Possible Lineups | Premier League, November 9, 2024.
- League: Premier League
- Date: Saturday, November 9, 2024
- Time: 3:00 pm GMT
- Venue: Molineux Stadium, Wolverhampton
This Saturday, Wolverhampton Wanderers (Wolves) host Southampton in a Premier League clash at Molineux Stadium. Both teams, languishing at the bottom of the table, will be eager to claim crucial points as they struggle to move out of the relegation zone. Wolves, yet to register a win this season, will aim to capitalize on home advantage, while Southampton hope to build momentum following their recent victory.
Wolves’ Season So Far
Wolves ended last season in a modest 14th position under the guidance of Gary O’Neil, a respectable outcome that suggested potential for further improvement. However, their current campaign has been a disappointing turnaround. Placed 20th in the EPL table, Wolves have managed only three draws from ten games, suffering seven defeats along the way.
They are winless and desperately need to reverse their fortunes if they hope to escape relegation by the season’s end. With an offense struggling to convert and a defense prone to leaks, Wolves need significant tactical adjustments and improved performances to compete in the league.
Southampton’s Struggles in the Premier League
Back in the Premier League after a stint in the EFL Championship, Southampton’s return has been less than stellar. They currently sit just above Wolves in 19th position, with four points from one win, one draw, and eight losses in their ten matches.
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Despite a rough start, Southampton’s spirits may be lifted following their recent victory, which showcased their resilience and adaptability. They will look to carry that energy into this matchup against another struggling side, hoping to claim three more points and continue moving up the standings.
Wolves vs Southampton: Key Details
With both clubs at the bottom of the table, this game could set the tone for the rest of the season. Wolves are winless, but their recent matches have seen improvements, including a close loss to Manchester City and two back-to-back 2-2 draws against Brighton and Crystal Palace. Southampton, on the other hand, recently defeated Everton in the league and Stoke City in the EFL Cup, giving them a potential confidence boost.
Team News and Injury Updates
Wolves Football Club
Wolves have been plagued with multiple injuries, adding to their struggles this season. Notably:
- Boubacar Traore and Hwang Hee-chan are recovering from injuries and are likely to return in late November.
- Sam Johnstone and Bastien Meupiyou remain doubtful for the Southampton clash, with their fitness under assessment.
- Enso Gonzalez and Yerson Mosquera are out for the remainder of the season due to severe knee injuries.
- Sasa Kalajdzic continues his recovery from an ACL injury and is expected back in January.
Southampton Football Club
Southampton also face significant injury issues heading into this fixture:
- Adam Lallana, Gavin Bazunu, Ross Stewart, and William Smallbone are all ruled out for the clash with Wolves.
- Ryan Fraser is doubtful, and his status will be evaluated closer to matchday.
Both teams will need to rely on their depth, with several key players out for this encounter. Each squad’s ability to adapt and make effective tactical changes will be essential in such a crucial match.
Predicted Lineups
Wolves Football Club (3-4-2-1)
- Goalkeeper: Jose Sa
- Defenders: Santiago Bueno, Craig Dawson, Toti Gomes
- Midfielders: Nelson Semedo, Thomas Doyle, Joao Gomes, Rayan Ait-Nouri
- Attackers: Pablo Sarabia, Matheus Cunha, Jorgen Strand Larsen
Southampton Football Club (5-3-2)
- Goalkeeper: Aaron Ramsdale
- Defenders: Kyle Walker-Peters, Taylor Harwood-Bellis, Jan Bednarek, Jack Stephens, Ryan Manning
- Midfielders: Flynn Downes, Mateus Fernandes, Joe Aribo
- Attackers: Adam Armstrong, Cameron Archer
The defensive-minded 5-3-2 setup from Southampton suggests they may look to play cautiously, minimizing Wolves’ attacking opportunities. Wolves, in their 3-4-2-1 formation, will likely focus on creating a solid midfield to control the game’s pace and push forward.
Wolves vs Southampton: Recent Head-to-Head Record
Wolves have had the upper hand in their last few meetings against Southampton:
- Southampton 1-2 Wolves – February 11, 2023
- Wolves 1-0 Southampton – September 3, 2022
- Wolves 3-1 Southampton – January 15, 2022
- Southampton 0-1 Wolves – September 26, 2021
- Southampton 1-2 Wolves – February 14, 2021
In their last 13 encounters, Wolves have won eight, Southampton have won three, and two have ended in draws. Wolves’ recent dominance in this matchup may give them a psychological edge, though both teams’ current form levels the playing field.
Key Players to Watch
Wolves FC: Jorgen Strand Larsen
On loan from Celta Vigo, Norwegian striker Jorgen Strand Larsen has been a rare bright spot for Wolves. His four goals and two assists across 11 appearances demonstrate his ability to contribute offensively despite the team’s struggles. His physicality and skill in linking up play make him a critical player for Wolves’ attack. Larsen will look to exploit any gaps in Southampton’s defense and convert chances into goals.
Southampton FC: Cameron Archer
Southampton forward Cameron Archer, who joined from Aston Villa, has had a promising start with four goals this season (two in the league and two in the EFL Cup). He was instrumental in Southampton’s recent win over Everton and will be crucial in their efforts to climb out of the relegation zone. His quick pace and positioning skills make him a threat to Wolves’ defense, and he will aim to add to his goal tally in this fixture.
Match Prediction
With both sides struggling at the bottom of the table, this match is expected to be a tight contest. Wolves have yet to register a victory, but their recent performances suggest improvement. Their 2-2 draws against strong teams like Brighton and Crystal Palace hint at potential, though defensive frailties remain a concern.
Southampton, on the other hand, are riding a slight momentum boost following their recent league win and EFL Cup progression. Despite their shaky start, they are showing signs of cohesion and resilience. With both sides having key players out due to injury, this match could come down to who makes fewer defensive errors.
Soccer Baba Predicted Score: Wolves 3-2 Southampton
While Southampton have shown some recent form, Wolves’ home advantage and slight edge in quality could see them secure their first win of the season.
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Where to Watch Wolves vs Southampton Live?
Fans can catch the action on the following platforms:
- USA: NBC Sports
- UK: Sky Sports
- India: Disney+ Hotstar, Star Network
For those in Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana, and Ivory Coast, local broadcasters and streaming services may provide live coverage.
| Country | Platform |
|---|---|
| USA | NBC Sports |
| UK | Sky Sports, TNT Sports |
| India | Star Sports, Hotstar |
| Spain | DAZN |
| Nigeria | Supersport |
| South Africa | Supersport |
| Ghana | Supersport |
| Ivory Coast | Canal+ |
With both teams in dire need of points, this clash at Molineux Stadium promises high stakes and intense action. It’s a battle of survival, and both Wolves and Southampton will leave no stone unturned in their quest to secure a crucial victory in their fight against relegation.