Wolves Player Ratings vs Blackburn – One 9/10 and One 4/10 as Marshall Munetsi Makes Debut in FA Cup Win…

Wolves Player Ratings vs Blackburn – One 9/10 and One 4/10 as Marshall Munetsi Makes Debut in FA Cup Win

 

Wolverhampton Wanderers cruised to a comfortable 3-1 victory over Blackburn Rovers in the FA Cup, with a standout performance from one player and a debut to remember for Marshall Munetsi. However, the match saw mixed individual performances, with some players delivering excellent displays, while others struggled to make an impact.

 

Here is a breakdown of how each player performed in the FA Cup tie against Blackburn:

 

 

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Jose Sa (Goalkeeper) – 7/10

 

Jose Sa made a solid contribution in goal and was largely untroubled by Blackburn’s attacking efforts. Though he was beaten once, he had little to do in the way of shot-stopping during the game. His distribution was clean, and he commanded his box with authority when called upon. A reliable performance from the Portuguese shot-stopper.

 

 

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Nelson Semedo (Right-back) – 8/10

 

Semedo had a good game at right-back, showing excellent pace and stamina down the flank. His runs were a constant threat to Blackburn, and his ability to link up with the midfield and forwards was a highlight. Defensively, he was solid and dealt with the threats down his side without much difficulty. His crossing could have been better at times, but overall it was a strong performance.

 

 

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Max Kilman (Centre-back) – 7/10

 

Kilman was composed at the back and read the game well, making crucial interceptions and clearances. He was also confident in possession, contributing to Wolves’ buildup from the back. While he didn’t have too much to do against a Blackburn attack that was limited in quality, his professionalism and ability to keep things calm at the back were evident throughout.

 

 

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Craig Dawson (Centre-back) – 7/10

 

Dawson was an aerial presence for Wolves and showed his leadership qualities in organizing the defense. His distribution was more basic, but he ensured that Blackburn did not have many chances to threaten. While not spectacular, Dawson did his job effectively, providing stability and reliability at the back.

 

 

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Rayan Ait-Nouri (Left-back) – 9/10

 

Ait-Nouri was undoubtedly one of the standout players of the match, earning a deserved 9/10 rating. The Frenchman was a constant menace on the left side, creating chances with his precise crossing and movement. He was involved in both attack and defense, showing excellent work rate throughout the game. Ait-Nouri’s performance demonstrated why he is considered one of Wolves’ most talented young players. His delivery from wide areas caused Blackburn constant problems, and he could have had an assist or two had the finishing been better. A top performance.

 

 

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Mario Lemina (Central Midfield) – 8/10

 

Lemina was the engine of the midfield, covering a lot of ground and contributing both defensively and offensively. His physicality was key in breaking up Blackburn’s attacks, and he showed excellent composure when on the ball. Lemina’s passing was crisp and sharp, and he played an important role in dictating the tempo of the game. His work rate and awareness were crucial in ensuring that Wolves remained in control.

 

 

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Joao Gomes (Central Midfield) – 8/10

 

Gomes was full of energy and ambition in the center of the park. He pressed Blackburn high and won the ball back in dangerous positions, helping his side to launch quick counter-attacks. The Brazilian’s versatility allowed him to contribute both offensively and defensively, and his passing range was impressive. While he didn’t get on the scoresheet, Gomes’ overall contribution was vital to Wolves’ control of the game.

 

 

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Matheus Cunha (Attacking Midfield) – 6/10

 

Cunha’s performance was a bit more subdued compared to some of his teammates, but he still showed glimpses of his skill and creativity. His movement off the ball was good, and he looked to link up with the attackers, though his final ball often lacked precision. Despite not scoring, Cunha was still a constant presence in the attacking third, but he will want to be more decisive in future outings.

 

 

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Pedro Neto (Right-wing) – 7/10

 

Neto had a solid game on the right-wing, providing pace and directness in attack. While his final product could have been better at times, Neto’s dribbling and ability to stretch the opposition made him a useful outlet for Wolves. He worked tirelessly off the ball, pressing Blackburn when they had possession and helping out defensively. Neto played a crucial role in Wolves’ overall attacking structure, although he didn’t register a goal or assist.

 

 

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Sasa Kalajdzic (Striker) – 6/10

 

Kalajdzic showed signs of improving his fitness and understanding of Wolves’ style of play, but his performance was underwhelming. The Austrian forward had a few half-chances but couldn’t quite find the back of the net. His movement off the ball was good, but he was often outmuscled by Blackburn’s defenders, and his finishing was not sharp enough. He’ll be hoping to get more goals as he adapts to his new environment.

 

 

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Hwang Hee-chan (Left-wing) – 8/10

 

Hwang delivered another high-energy performance on the left-wing. He was involved in both the build-up play and the final third, where he made intelligent runs and linked up well with his teammates. The South Korean forward’s finishing was clinical, as he scored one of the goals in the match. His pressing and defensive work off the ball were also commendable, showing his commitment to the team’s overall effort. Hwang’s contribution made a positive impact in securing the win.

 

 

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Substitute: Marshall Munetsi (Midfield) – 7/10

 

Making his debut for Wolves, Munetsi looked composed and confident in his brief appearance on the pitch. While he was not on the field for long, he showed excellent technical ability, covering a lot of ground in the midfield. He was involved in some key passes and linked up well with the rest of the squad. Given his relatively short time on the field, Munetsi’s debut was promising, and he can look forward to more opportunities in the future.

 

 

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Substitute: Raul Jimenez (Striker) – 6/10

 

Jimenez came on as a substitute and made some positive contributions, including helping hold up the ball and bring others into play. He was not heavily involved in the attacking play, and while he was a willing runner, he couldn’t find the back of the net. Jimenez remains an important option for Wolves but has yet to fully rediscover his pre-injury form.

 

 

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Manager: Julen Lopetegui – 8/10

 

Lopetegui made some smart tactical decisions throughout the match, ensuring that Wolves were in control. His team played with confidence and structure, and the performance was exactly what was needed in a cup tie. The debut of Munetsi and the rotation of the squad also showed that Lopetegui has trust in his players, which bodes well for the rest of the season.

 

 

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Conclusion

 

It was a professional and assured performance from Wolverhampton Wanderers as they comfortably advanced in the FA Cup with a 3-1 win over Blackburn. While there were some mixed individual performances, standout efforts from Ait-Nouri, Lemina, and Hwang ensured that Wolves emerged victorious. Marshall Munetsi’s debut was a highlight, with the midfielder showing promise in his first appearance for the club. As Wolves progress in the competition, they will hope to build on this win and continue their momentum.