League Cup Shockers: Wolves Beat West Ham, Leeds and Sunderland Exit
August 27, 2025
Newcastle target Jorgen Strand Larsen inspired Wolves to a thrilling 3-2 League Cup win over West Ham on Tuesday, while Premier League sides Leeds and Sunderland suffered surprise exits to lower-league opposition on penalties.
Wolves Stage Stunning Comeback
Wolves overturned a 2-1 deficit at Molineux thanks to Larsen, who was introduced just 17 minutes from time. The Norwegian striker scored twice in three minutes, turning the game on its head and adding pressure on West Ham boss Graham Potter.
West Ham initially took the lead through Tomas Soucek and Lucas Paqueta after Rodrigo Gomes had put Wolves ahead. The Hammers, who have conceded eight goals in their opening Premier League games, remain without a win this season.
Reports suggest Newcastle made a £50 million bid for Larsen, who could serve as a replacement for Alexander Isak, but Wolves have reportedly rejected the offer.
Premier League Upsets
Leeds United, despite spending nearly £100 million on new players, were knocked out by Sheffield Wednesday in a dramatic penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw. Fans were asked not to attend the game in protest of club owner Dejphon Chansiri, but it was the home side who celebrated as Leeds missed all three of their spot-kicks.
Sunderland also suffered a penalty shootout defeat, losing 6-5 to League One side Huddersfield Town following a 1-1 draw.
Other Results
In other ties, Brentford defeated Bournemouth 2-0 with goals from Fabio Carvalho and Igor Thiago, while Burnley secured a 2-1 win over second-tier Derby thanks to a stoppage-time strike from Oliver Sonne.
Tuesday’s League Cup action highlighted the unpredictability of knockout football, with lower-league sides showing they can challenge the Premier League giants.
