Here’s a polished version of the match report and player ratings for the Wolves vs. Brighton game
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Under-pressure manager Gary O’Neil saw his Wolverhampton Wanderers squad mount a spirited comeback against Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday evening.
The Wolves, facing a challenging start to their season with fixtures against top-ranked teams, finally secured their second point with a late-game rally that overturned a 2-0 deficit.
This performance, showcasing Wolves’ resilience, will likely lift morale as the team enters a more favorable schedule.
For Brighton, the Seagulls looked poised to continue their strong season start with goals from veteran Danny Welbeck and rising star Evan Ferguson.
While Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler seemed on track to secure three points, two quick goals from Wolves in the final minutes saw Brighton’s advantage slip away.
This result serves as a setback for Brighton, who now face a daunting schedule with games against Liverpool and Manchester City.
Brighton & Hove Albion Player Ratings
Goalkeeper
Bart Verbruggen – 7/10
Verbruggen delivered a solid performance, commanding his area effectively and displaying accurate distribution. Despite his effort, he was unfortunate to concede late goals.
Defenders
Pervis Estupiñán – 7/10
Estupiñán balanced defense and attack well, covering his flank confidently despite a few positional lapses on counter-attacks.
Igor Júlio – 6/10
Stepping in for Lewis Dunk, Igor had a composed performance, impressing fans with calm defensive work and skilled footwork.
Jan Paul van Hecke – 6/10
While van Hecke defended solidly for most of the game, he struggled with organization as Wolves ramped up their attack in the final minutes.
Joël Veltman – 5/10
Veltman faced continuous pressure, as Wolves targeted his side. Even with substitute support, he couldn’t stem the flow of Wolves’ attacks.
Midfielders
Kaoru Mitoma – 6/10
Mitoma displayed flashes of brilliance but was mostly contained by Wolves’ Nelson Semedo, losing possession frequently.
Yasin Ayari – 6/10
Ayari showed moments of creativity but struggled with maintaining possession in Wolves’ half.
Carlos Baleba – 9/10
Baleba was pivotal in midfield, breaking up play and linking passes with precision. One of the game’s best performers, he controlled Brighton’s tempo.
Ferdi Kadıoğlu – 6/10
Tasked with an advanced role, Kadıoğlu started strong but faded in the second half, unable to sustain his influence.
Attackers
Danny Welbeck (c) – 8/10
Welbeck’s leadership shone, with his early goal adding to his recent form. He has been a reliable presence in Brighton’s attack.
Georginio Rutter – 7/10
Though still adapting, Rutter’s physical presence helped Brighton, assisting Welbeck’s goal and unsettling Wolves’ defense.
Substitutes
Evan Ferguson – 8/10
Ferguson was impactful, scoring shortly after coming on and demonstrating poise in front of goal.
Tariq Lamptey – 7/10
Brought in to support the defense, Lamptey also contributed offensively, setting up Ferguson’s goal.
Wolverhampton Wanderers Player Ratings
Goalkeeper
José Sá – 6/10
Sá delivered a steady performance but committed a costly error that led to Brighton’s opener.
Defenders
Toti Gomes – 6/10
Gomes had a tough time containing Brighton’s attack, which led to his substitution at halftime.
Craig Dawson – 7/10
Dawson held the defense together, contributing to Wolves’ comeback with his steady leadership.
Santiago Bueno – 6/10
Bueno had a challenging game, often on the back foot against Brighton’s pace, though he remained resilient under pressure.
Midfielders
Rayan Aït Nouri – 7/10
Aït Nouri was active in attack, scoring Wolves’ first goal and creating opportunities.
Mario Lemina (c) – 6/10
Despite a solid start, Lemina’s early substitution was unexpected. He demonstrated determination during his time on the pitch.
Tommy Doyle – 6.5/10
Doyle worked hard, missing a crucial chance but contributing to Wolves’ second-half revival.
João Gomes – 6/10
Gomes alternated roles effectively but didn’t add much stability in either phase.
Nélson Semedo – 7/10
Semedo was defensively strong, keeping Mitoma in check and supporting the attack when needed.
Attackers
Matheus Cunha – 9/10
Cunha showed relentless energy, scoring Wolves’ equalizer and leading from the front.
Jørgen Strand Larsen – 6/10
Larsen struggled to make an impact, finding it difficult to impose his physicality on Brighton’s defenders.
Substitutes
Pablo Sarabia – 6/10
Sarabia played a supportive role in the comeback, linking up well in the attack.
Carlos Forbes – 6/10
Forbes brought energy but lacked the defensive discipline required, showcasing raw potential.
Manager
Gary O’Neil – 7/10
O’Neil’s willingness to make bold substitutions paid off, as his side rallied from two goals down. This result may bolster confidence in his leadership as they face the upcoming fixtures.
