Premier League action resumes as Wolverhampton Wanderers host Ipswich Town at Molineux Stadium on Saturday, December 14th, 2024, at 9:00 PM (GMT). Under the management of Gary O’Neil, Wolves will look to capitalize on their home advantage and secure important points as they fight for a mid-table position. Meanwhile, Kieran McKenna’s Ipswich Town will aim to continue their strong start to the season and prove their credentials in the Premier League.
Wolves vs Ipswich Form Guide
Wolves
Wolves have shown solid resilience this season, with strong counter-attacks and a well-organized defense. Key players such as Matheus Cunha and Jørgen Strand Larsen have been vital in their attacking efforts, while their defensive unit will need to be disciplined against Ipswich’s attacking threats. However, Wolves have struggled with possession, often playing a direct game that relies on the counter and long balls.
Ipswich
Ipswich, in their Premier League return, have displayed a direct style of play, often relying on long balls and aggressive attacking down the right wing. Liam Delap and Sammie Szmodics have been crucial in their offensive strategy, and they will look to exploit any weaknesses in the Wolves’ defense. Ipswich’s vulnerability lies in defending against skillful players and their tendency to make individual errors.
Wolves vs Ipswich Key Battles
Matheus Cunha vs Liam Delap
The battle between Wolves’ top scorer Matheus Cunha and Ipswich’s Liam Delap will be crucial. Cunha’s creativity and finishing ability will be tested against Delap’s physicality and aerial presence. The outcome of this duel could determine the attacking threat from both sides.
Jørgen Strand Larsen vs Sammie Szmodics
The duel between Larsen and Szmodics will be significant in midfield. Larsen’s goal-scoring ability and Szmodics’ playmaking could be key in breaking down the opposition’s defense and creating scoring opportunities.
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Wolves vs Ipswich Tactical Outlook
Wolves’ tactical approach is built around a strong counter-attacking game, capitalizing on quick transitions after winning the ball from the opposition. Their aggressive playing style and ability to finish scoring chances make them a potent force when on the attack. However, Wolves struggle with possession retention and are vulnerable to wide attacks, as well as set pieces, where they can be exposed defensively.
Ipswich will look to use their strength in aerial duels and attacking down the right wing to break down Wolves’ defense. With an aggressive playing style and a rotating first eleven, Ipswich aims to keep Wolves on their toes, frequently changing their attacking approach. However, Ipswich’s weaknesses lie in finishing scoring chances and defending through-ball attacks, which could leave them vulnerable to Wolves’ quick counter-attacks and skillful players.
Head-to-Head Encounters
Wolves and Ipswich have faced each other a few times in the past, with Wolves having a slight edge, with 4 wins, 3 losses, and 5 draws. Wolves are the favorites to win the match, according to the bookmakers, with odds of 1.90 to win, 3.80 for a draw, and 3.90 for Ipswich to win.
Injury News and Suspensions
Wolves
Wolves are facing a tough period with João Gomes suspended and key players like Boubacar Traoré and Sasa Kalajdzic sidelined due to injuries, expected to return by late December and early January 2025. Enso Gonzalez’s long-term absence until May 2025 further compounds the challenge for Julen Lopetegui’s side.
Ipswich
Ipswich is dealing with a growing injury list as Axel Tuanzebe and George Hirst are both expected to return by late December 2024, while Chiedozie Ogbene’s Achilles injury and Cieran Slicker’s doubtful status add further uncertainty to their squad depth. The team will need to navigate these absences as they approach crucial fixtures.
Wolves vs Ipswich Possible Playing Squad
Wolverhampton Wanderers
Johnstone (GK), Gomes, Bueno, Semedo, Aït-Nouri, Lemina, André, Doherty, Cunha, Bellegarde, Larsen
Ipswich Town
Muric (GK), Davis, Burgess, O’Shea, Johnson, Taylor, Morsy, Szmodics, Chaplin, Hutchinson, Delap
Wolves vs Ipswich Match Details at a Glance
| Match | Date | Time | Format | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Ipswich Town | Saturday, December 14, 2024 | 9:00 PM (GMT) | Premier League | Molineux Stadium, Wolverhampton, England |
Wolves vs Ipswich Match Prediction
The match is expected to be an intense contest, with both teams looking to claim valuable points. Wolves will have the advantage at home, but Ipswich’s attacking threat could cause problems. Given their weaknesses, both sides are likely to find it difficult to secure a clear win.
Wolves vs Ipswich Score Prediction
A 2-2 draw seems a plausible outcome, with both teams creating scoring opportunities but struggling to completely control the game.