Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Tolu Arokodare is set to chase his first Premier League goal this weekend as Wolves travel to Sunderland for a crucial top-flight clash on Saturday. The Nigerian international, fresh from international duty with the Super Eagles, will hope to feature in the starting lineup and make a decisive impact for his club.
Arokodare has struggled to find the net in the ongoing season, having made four appearances without scoring. The 24-year-old forward is eager to open his account in England’s top division and demonstrate his value under Wolves’ Portuguese manager, Pereira. With confidence high following a recent unbeaten run, Arokodare has a prime opportunity to leave his mark against a Sunderland side known for their resilience at the Stadium of Light.
Historically, Wolves have faced challenges at Sunderland. Their upcoming trip marks the club’s first visit to the Stadium of Light since a 3-0 Championship defeat in May 2018. In fact, Wolves have only managed one victory in their last ten away league encounters against Sunderland — a 3-1 Premier League win in May 2011 under then-manager Mick McCarthy. Despite this, optimism is building within the Wolves squad as they look to secure a positive result on Saturday.
Recent tactical changes have also provided Wolves with renewed stability. Manager Pereira switched from a back five to a four-man defence, and the adjustment has yielded encouraging results. Wolves are currently unbeaten in their last three matches across all competitions, with one win and two draws. The Portuguese coach is expected to maintain this system against Sunderland, relying on a balanced approach that solidifies the defence while providing Arokodare and his attacking partners with opportunities to score.
Sunderland, meanwhile, will be keen to extend their strong home form. The Black Cats have built a solid defensive foundation under their current manager and will look to exploit any weaknesses in Wolves’ setup. Key players such as Talbi and Isidor will be crucial in creating chances, while Roefs in goal will aim to keep a clean sheet against a Wolves side eager to find its scoring touch.
The expected starting lineup for Sunderland includes Roefs in goal, with Hume, Mukiele, Ballard, and Masuaku forming the defensive line. Rigg, Xhaka, and Le Fee are set to control midfield, while Talbi, Isidor, and Adingra will spearhead the attack. Wolves will likely line up with Johnstone in goal, Tchatchoua, S. Bueno, Krejci, and H. Bueno in defence, Munetsi, Andre, and J. Gomes in midfield, and Arias, Strand Larsen, and Hwang leading the frontline alongside Arokodare.
For Arokodare, the match represents more than just another league fixture. Scoring his first Premier League goal would provide a significant boost to his confidence and help cement his place in the Wolves squad. It would also strengthen his claim for regular selection in the Super Eagles, especially with the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching. Nigeria’s national team management will be closely monitoring his performances, and a strong showing in England could enhance his standing among the national team’s forwards.
Wolves’ fans will be hoping that their striker can break his scoring drought and help the team secure a rare victory at Sunderland. Success on the road would continue Wolves’ unbeaten streak and provide momentum for the remainder of the season. Meanwhile, Sunderland will aim to use their home advantage to halt Wolves’ recent good form and assert themselves in the Premier League standings.
Saturday’s encounter promises to be a tactical and competitive battle, with Arokodare at the heart of Wolves’ attacking ambitions. Whether the Nigerian forward can finally score his first Premier League goal remains the focal point, but the match also represents a crucial test of Wolves’ adaptability and resilience away from home. Fans from both sides will be eagerly anticipating the outcome as the Premier League season enters a pivotal phase.
