The third round of the Carabao Cup brings an intriguing clash at Molineux as Wolverhampton Wanderers host Everton. Both sides come into this tie with different priorities but a shared need for a confidence-boosting result. Wolves are struggling badly in the Premier League, sitting bottom after five defeats in as many games, while Everton have shown more stability but are also looking to bounce back from a recent setback. With both clubs expected to rotate their squads, this encounter could provide opportunities for fringe players to make their mark while still carrying the weight of progression to the last 16.

Wolverhampton Wanderers: Recent Form and Key Stats

It has been a difficult start to the season for Wolves. They were beaten 3-1 at home by Leeds United on September 20, a result that extended their losing streak in the league to five matches. Across those fixtures, they have conceded 12 goals, averaging 2.0 per game, while scoring just 1.2 on average. Their defensive issues are particularly concerning, with 10 goals conceded in three home league matches. One of those defeats came against Everton on August 30, when they lost 3-2 at Molineux.

Despite their league struggles, Wolves have found some respite in the Carabao Cup. They defeated West Ham 3-2 in the previous round, showing resilience by coming from behind late in the match. That victory means they have now reached the third round for the third consecutive season, and in 2022-23 they even advanced to the quarter-finals. Encouragingly, Wolves have won at half time in their last three home Carabao Cup matches, underlining their ability to start strongly in this competition. However, they have also lost at half time in their last three matches across all competitions, highlighting inconsistency.

Another notable trend is that over 0.5 goals have been scored in each of their last 40 matches, and in all of their last 20 home games. This suggests that goals are almost guaranteed when Wolves are involved, though unfortunately for them, many of those have been conceded. With the pressure mounting on coach Vitor Pereira, who was recently handed a new contract despite the poor start, this Carabao Cup tie could be crucial in restoring some belief among the players and supporters.

Everton: Recent Form and Key Stats

Everton have enjoyed a steadier start to the season compared to their hosts. They currently have two league wins under their belt and reached this stage of the Carabao Cup by defeating Mansfield Town 2-0. However, they come into this match on the back of a 2-1 defeat at Liverpool on September 20, which followed a goalless draw against Aston Villa. That means the Toffees are winless in their last two games, but prior to that they had gone four matches unbeaten.

In their last five fixtures, Everton have recorded three wins, one draw, and one defeat, scoring an average of 1.6 goals per game while conceding just 0.8. This defensive solidity has been a key factor in their improved performances compared to previous seasons. In the Carabao Cup, they have struggled in recent years, reaching the last eight only once in the past five campaigns, but they will see this tie as a good chance to progress further.

Everton’s squad rotation could see opportunities for players such as Barry and Armstrong, while Jack Grealish is expected to feature after showing good form. Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford may again be rested, with Mark Travers potentially starting as he did in the previous round. The Toffees will be without summer loan signing Merlin Rohl, who missed the Liverpool game. Despite these changes, Everton have shown they can remain competitive, and they will be aiming to replicate their recent 3-2 win at Molineux.

Statistically, Everton have been reliable in front of goal, with over 0.5 goals scored in 29 of their last 30 matches. They also have a balanced head-to-head record against Wolves, with two wins, one draw, and two defeats in their last five meetings. Their average of 1.6 goals scored per game this season suggests they will pose a consistent attacking threat.

Wolves vs Everton: Prediction and Tactical Overview

This Carabao Cup tie is set up to be a competitive and open contest. Wolves are desperate for a win to lift morale, while Everton will want to avoid a third straight game without victory. Both teams have shown defensive vulnerabilities in recent weeks, and their head-to-head history points towards goals, with the last meeting ending 3-2 in Everton’s favour.

Wolves’ defensive frailties, combined with Everton’s attacking consistency, suggest that both sides are likely to find the net. The fact that Wolves have conceded in every league game this season, and Everton have scored in four of their last five matches, strengthens this view. With both managers expected to rotate, the game could become more open, especially as there are no replays in the Carabao Cup and the tie must be decided on the night.

Overall, this looks like a match where both teams will score. Wolves will be motivated to end their losing streak, while Everton will want to build momentum in the cup. The combination of Wolves’ leaky defense and Everton’s attacking options makes this outcome the most probable.

Wolves vs Everton prediction from BetMines: Both Teams To Score (Yes) with 52% probability.