Team News and Expected Lineups
Gary O'Neil’s Wolves walk into Molineux with a battered morale after four straight defeats. The manager has confirmed that striker Daniel Podence is fit after a minor knock, but the biggest concern remains the shortage of a reliable goal‑scorer. Mid‑fielder João Moutinho is back from suspension and is expected to sit deeper to help shore up the defense.
- Goalkeeper: Jose Sa
- Defence: Max Kilman, Nelson Semedo, Leighton Baines, Rayan Ait-Nouri
- Midfield: João Moutinho, Vitinha, Matheus Nunes
- Attack: Daniel Podence, Raul Jimenez (if fit), Adama Traoré
Leeds United arrive with a slightly better recent record but a bruising 1‑0 loss to Fulham that hinged on an own‑goal. Daniel Farke has opted for an untried back‑four to add extra cover, dropping winger Jack Clarke in favour of a more defensive shape. The young striker Rodrigo shines in training and could start alongside Pablo Hernandez.
- Goalkeeper: Illan Meslier
- Defence: Dan Burn, Luke Ayling, Pontus Jansson, Gabriel Gudmundsson (despite recent own‑goal)
- Midfield: Stuart Dallas, Rodrigo, Tyler Morton
- Attack: Jack Harrison, Pablo Hernandez, Ola Aina (wing‑back role)
Match Outlook and Prediction
Both clubs are fighting for survival, but the stakes differ. Wolves sit at the foot of the table, twenty points behind safety, and a fifth consecutive loss would cement an unwanted record. Leeds sit three spots higher and may believe they have the psychological edge, even after their painful defeat.
Defensively, Wolves showed progress against Newcastle, holding the Magpies to a 1‑0 win. If they can replicate that organization and add a bit more bite up front, a point is within reach. Leeds, on the other hand, have been solid at the back all season but lack creativity in the final third. Their chance to break the deadlock may come from the flanks, where Jack Harrison’s pace could stretch a compact Wolves defence.
Given the defensive emphasis and the need for Wolves to avoid a historic losing streak, the game is likely to be tight and low‑scoring. A draw feels the most plausible outcome, offering Leeds a valuable point to climb away from the relegation zone while giving Wolves the morale boost of finally breaking their winless run.
