Wolves progressed to the next round of the Carabao Cup with a 2-0 win over Burnley at Molineux.
Gary O’Neil’s side had a lot to prove after the abysmal showing that the home supporters witnessed on Sunday.
The 6-2 defat to Chelsea was forgiven on Wednesday evening as a well-taken Goncalo Guedes brace was enough to secure the win for Wolves against Scott Parker’s Burnley.
It was an encouraging performance and a good opportunity for several fringe players to show their worth to O’Neil, which some certainly managed to do. Here’s how the players rated…
Wolves player ratings v Burnley
Dan Bentley – 6
Quiet night for Dan Bentley which he will be somewhat unhappy with considering it could represent his final appearance for the Old Gold.
Rayan Ait-Nouri – 6.5
Almost scored a wonder goal in the first half, frequently danced through Burnley’s side, unstoppable when on the ball. You have to wonder if he’s somewhat wasted at left-back.
Craig Dawson – 6.5
Dawson is the commanding and experienced figure that Wolves have been missing in the opening fixtures of 2024/25. Unbelievable ball to set Lima off to create Guedes’ first goal, showed strong distribution all night.
Santi Bueno – 6
Seemed assured next to Dawson however, lost possession several times in the first half through misplaced passes.
Pedro Lima – 7
It’s hard to believe that Lima is just 18-years-old with limited experience at senior level. The defender was consistently getting in good positions and could have scored in the first half. Lima settled for an assist instead, setting up Guedes with a perfect cross.
Tommy Doyle – 6.5
Another player who plays beyond his years is Doyle, who was constantly aware in the midfield. The Englishman was a strong outlet for those ahead of him.
Boubacar Traore – 6
Forced off due to injury just before half time which was a great shame, but looked bright when on the pitch, cut off Burnley’s threat from deep on numerous occasions.
Chiquinho – 7
Raw but incredibly encouraging, fearless approach when charging towards goal. Playing like he wanted to prove a point, exciting talent that will be one to watch as his confidence grows.
Pablo Sarabia – 7
A mature head in Wolves’ attack, Sarabia was spotted guiding young Lima behind him on the right side, also provided strong support for Guedes and Podence, a top-class playmaker on his day.
Daniel Podence – 7
Lively through the middle, linked well with Guedes and was a class above in the middle always looking to create. Could he have convinced O’Neil to keep him on board this season?
Goncalo Guedes – 8
Playing for his future perhaps but Wolves won’t care, Guedes took both of his goals in clinical fashion, finishing first-time from Lima’s cross and then keeping cool to bury his second. Redemption time?
Subs
Mario Lemina – 6
A captain’s cameo from Lemina who replaced Traore at half-time due to injury. The Gabon international read the game expertly offering assured support both in attack and defensively.
Toti Gomes – 6
Had the opportunity to score after coming on, mistimed his header. Great distributor of the ball, always looking forward.