Everton vs Wolverhampton Wanderers — EFL Cup

**Everton 1-0 Wolverhampton Wanderers**

**What set this match apart:** This was a very typical match: only small details set it apart (78% of matches were more unusual than this one). The most striking feature was the lack of direct play, as both teams completed very few accurate long balls (Everton 14, Wolverhampton Wanderers 14; 28 in total, 1st percentile of the two teams' joint volume). Despite this lack of directness, the game was defined by a high volume of successful dribbles (27 in total, 97th percentile of the two teams' joint volume), with Everton making 3 more than the other side (Everton 15, Wolverhampton Wanderers 12, 75th percentile of gaps).

**How it played out:** Everton maintained a significant territorial advantage, completing 273 passes in the opponent's half compared to Wolverhampton Wanderers' 128 (a +145 gap at the 88th percentile of gaps). This pressure was reflected in the corner count, where Everton made 6 to Wolverhampton Wanderers' 2 (4 more, 81st percentile of gaps). While the overall volume of shots inside the box was low (12 in total, 9th percentile of the two teams' joint volume), Everton was clearly ahead with 10 to 2. This translated into clear-cut scoring opportunities as well, with few big chances in the match, but Everton was clearly ahead with 4 to 0. Wolverhampton Wanderers, meanwhile, were more active in defensive actions, making 5 blocked shots to Everton's 0 (a +5 gap at the 90th percentile of gaps). The physical battle in the air was minimal, as few aerial duels won in the match, but Everton was clearly ahead with 10 to 6 (75th percentile of gaps).

**Verdict:** The performances pointed to a Everton win (70%), and that is what happened. The fair probabilities are Everton win 70%, draw 24%, and Wolverhampton Wanderers win 6%. With Everton recording 4 big chances to 0, the result was deserved.