AliousWolves’ domestic campaign has been far from ideal, but they remain in contention for FA Cup glory as they prepare to face Bournemouth in the Fifth Round. Despite suffering a 2-1 defeat to Fulham in midweek, the Old Gold can take confidence from their recent 1-0 league victory over the Cherries.
One player who impressed in that win could be handed a rare starting opportunity when Wolves return to the Vitality Stadium this weekend.
Pedro Lima Tipped for Surprise Start Against Bournemouth
Since joining Wolves from Brazilian side Sport Recife last summer, Pedro Lima has mostly been a backup option. Under former boss Gary O’Neil, the young full-back featured just twice, but he appears to have a more prominent role under Vitor Pereira.
That growing trust has been highlighted by journalist Liam Keen, who has suggested Lima might start ahead of Nelson Semedo in the FA Cup clash.
“My head says Semedo will play, but I have a sneaky feeling Lima might get the nod,” Keen revealed on the *E&S* podcast. “I’m going to go out on a limb and say Lima is in!”
Lima was introduced for the final 10 minutes in Wolves’ recent Premier League win over Bournemouth and made an impact at both ends of the pitch. His energetic cameo may have convinced Pereira to give him his fourth start of the season.
Nasser Djiga Could Make Full Wolves Debut
Lima may not be the only unexpected inclusion in the lineup. Keen also believes January signing Nasser Djiga could make his first start for Wolves.
“I think Djiga plays, and Doc [Doherty] drops out,” he predicted. “I also think Bueno and Toti [Gomes] keep their places, with Ait-Nouri at left wing-back.”
Djiga made his Wolves debut in a brief appearance against Liverpool but has yet to start a match. If selected, the FA Cup could mark his full introduction to the squad—just as it did for fellow January recruit Emmanuel Agbadou after his move from Stade Reims.
Key FA Cup Fixture on the Horizon
Wolves will take on Bournemouth in the Fifth Round of the FA Cup this Saturday at 3 p.m. GMT. However, fans hoping to watch live will be disappointed, as the match has not been selected for broadcast in the UK.
With a potential quarter-final spot at stake, Pereira’s lineup choices—including whether to trust Lima and Djiga—could prove crucial in determining Wolves’ FA Cup fate.
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