Haji Wright’s extra-time winner propels Coventry City into FA Cup semifinals

Coventry City coughed up a two-goal lead at English Premier League side Wolves on Saturday, but used the late impact from Haji Wright to seal a spot into the FA Cup semifinals. 

Wright scored in the 100th minute at Molineux as the Sky Blues defeated Wolves 3-2 in quarterfinal action on Saturday. The U.S. men’s national team forward helped seal a first FA Cup semifinal trip for Coventry since 1986-87. 

After a goal-less first half, Coventry City broke the deadlock through Ellis Simms’ opening goal. Simms followed up a play in the Wolves box and finished nicely into the bottom corner. 

However, Rayan Ait-Nouri would eventually lead a Wolves comeback by tying the match  with six minutes to play. 

Substitute Hugo Bueno would boost Gary O’Neill’s squad in front 2-1, finishing off Ait-Nouri’s pass for what looked to be the winning goal.

Coventry City did not lie down though, as Simms netted his second goal of the match in the 97th minute. Bobby Thomas’ flick-on pass was slotted home by Simms, making it 2-2. 

With extra time looming, Wright delivered the eventual winning goal after a hardworking shift. Simms’ pass was curled home by the U.S. men’s national team forward for his 15th goal of the season across all competitions. 

Coventry City would celebrate with its traveling support, knowing a second trip to Wembley Stadium in consecutive years is set to occur this April. Wright, who was not chosen for USMNT duty this month, has enjoyed a stellar first season in England. 

Sky Blues manager Robins praised Wright’s game-winning goal, but also admitted his disappointment in his omission from international duty.

“Haji’s finish is incredible and that just shows the international quality that he has and I’m disappointed for him he’s not going away with the USA team this week, but that will come,” he said.

Coventry City has next week off due to the international break, but next travels to Huddersfield Town in EFL Championship play.