Wolves Progress to FA Cup Quarter-Finals with Narrow Victory over Brighton

Wolverhampton Wanderers secured their place in the FA Cup quarter-finals for just the second time in 21 years with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion at Molineux, courtesy of Mario Lemina’s early goal in the second minute.

While both teams harbor aspirations of European qualification through their league standings, the FA Cup presents a more immediate opportunity for success, especially with a quarter-final tie against Championship opposition awaiting the winner.

Wolves seized the initiative from the outset, with Lemina capitalizing on Jason Steele’s error to score from Jean-Ricner Bellegarde’s cross within the opening minutes. Santiago Bueno came close to doubling the lead soon after, signaling a potentially difficult evening for Brighton reminiscent of their recent loss to Luton.

However, Brighton gradually gained control of the game, with Jakub Moder and Facundo Buonanotte threatening the Wolves goal. Despite their endeavors, Wolves maintained their slender lead going into halftime.

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After the break, Brighton pushed forward in search of an equalizer, but Wolves remained resolute defensively. Pedro Neto’s introduction added impetus to Wolves’ counterattacks, while Rayan Aït-Nouri came close to extending the lead.

In the closing stages, Brighton applied pressure on the Wolves defense, but goalkeeper José Sá remained untroubled. The home fans provided unwavering support, spurring the team on to secure victory despite a late scare from Steele.

With a tie against Coventry City in the quarter-finals, Wolves edge closer to a potential Wembley appearance. While dreams of FA Cup glory may seem premature for Wolves fans, they can take solace in their progress, unlike Brighton, who must wait for another opportunity to lift the trophy.