Andrey Santos, the Brazilian midfielder for Chelsea, scored the opening goal at the five-minute mark against Wolverhampton on Wednesday (29), in the round of 16 of the English League Cup at Molineux Stadium. The play originated from a precise pass by Jamie Gittens, enabling the 21-year-old to control the ball at the edge of the area and fire a powerful shot into the bottom right corner past goalkeeper José Sá, setting the score at 0-1 for the visitors. The match, still ongoing in the early stages of the first half, features a rotated squad by manager Enzo Maresca to rest key players for Premier League duties. Chelsea aims to progress in the competition after defeating Lincoln City in the previous round.
The game kicked off with London dominance, emphasizing efficient ball possession. Long and short passes kept Wolverhampton under pressure from the start. Local fans filled the stands, watching closely as the home side seeks to respond to the early deficit.
Key early moments:
- 1′: Chelsea starts with quick build-ups and ball control, making it hard for opponents to intercept.
- 3′: Estêvão’s cross from the right is cleared by Wolverhampton defense.
- 4′: Overhead pass by Malo Gusto into the area leads to a corner for Chelsea after interception.
- 5′: Corner taken by Estêvão, but defense heads away securely.
- 5′: Andrey Santos goal assisted by Gittens, blasting into the net with a low drive.
Electrifying start at Molineux
Wolverhampton, playing at home, struggled in the opening minutes to contain Chelsea’s attacks. The visiting team, with a mixed lineup, focused on quick transitions and wing play. Andrey Santos, who rose through Vasco and joined the senior squad this season, displayed accuracy in his finish, marking his first official goal for the English club.
This strike highlights the midfielder’s potential, building on his goal involvements during prior loans in France. The early score shifts the dynamics, prompting Gary O’Neil’s side to tighten midfield markings.
Recent head-to-head record
The teams met three times in the last two years, with Chelsea claiming all victories. In January 2025, in the Premier League, the Blues won 3-1 at Stamford Bridge, scoring in the second half. Fourteen months ago at Molineux, the score ended 6-2 for the visitors, highlighted by local defensive errors.
Overall, in 20 historical encounters, Wolverhampton has six wins and four draws, but Chelsea dominates recent fixtures. These outcomes reflect the Londoners’ technical edge in various competitions.
This winning streak boosts current squad confidence, especially in knockout stages. Manager Maresca uses these stats to encourage rotations, emphasizing efficiency.
Andrey Santos joined Chelsea in 2023 for 18 million pounds after shining at Vasco. Loaned to Strasbourg last season, he played 34 matches and contributed to 15 goal involvements through assists and finishes. His official debut for the first team came in June 2025 at the Club World Cup, providing a key assist against Espérance.
Standing at 180 cm and versatile in midfield, he fits Maresca’s style that values vision-oriented holding players. At 21, he has logged 22 minutes in recent competitions, focusing on European adaptation.
This Molineux performance could increase his rotation opportunities. The Brazilian shows solidity in duels and pass accuracy, core to the tactical setup.
Chelsea’s run in the competition
Chelsea entered the League Cup in the third round, facing third-division Lincoln City. The 2-1 win included goals from Buonanotte and George, played away in heavy rain. This qualification allowed Enzo Maresca to test options, saving stars like Palmer and Nkunku for league games.
Currently ninth in the Premier League with 14 points, the London side uses the cup to regain form after a recent loss. The mixed squad features youths like Andrey Santos and Estêvão, aiding internal growth.
The rotation strategy balances workloads amid a packed schedule including the Champions League. Advancement in the round of 16 relies on sustaining the initial intensity.
Pressure on Wolverhampton
The home team, under Gary O’Neil, needs a response after conceding early. The defense, anchored by experienced center-backs, erred in individual marking on Santos. The local midfield must improve possession to balance play.
Players like Cunha and Belotti probe counter-attacks, but Chelsea holds 65% possession in the opening minutes. The coach adjusts positions, prioritizing defensive compactness.
This early setback tests resilience, typical in night games at Molineux. Home support remains strong, but emphasis lies on swift transitions.
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