Brentford's Historic Early Goal Streak: A Smart Bet Against Wolves?

Brentford have etched their name in Premier League history by becoming the first team to score within the first minute of three consecutive matches. This impressive feat isn’t just down to luck—it’s the result of precise tactics, clever execution, and a touch of managerial insight from Thomas Frank. As they prepare for this weekend’s clash against Wolverhampton Wanderers, it’s hard to ignore the betting potential on another early goal.

With Brentford’s rapid-fire starts becoming a pattern, is this the perfect opportunity for punters to back an early goal?

Tactical Brilliance Behind Brentford’s Early Goals

Brentford’s ability to strike within the first 60 seconds, as witnessed in recent games against Manchester City, Tottenham, and West Ham, is more than just exploiting defensive lapses. The key to their success lies in detailed planning and flawless execution, with set-piece coach Keith Andrew playing a pivotal role in refining their approach.

Last season, Brentford only managed four goals in the opening 15 minutes across the entire campaign. This year, their focus on quick build-up play, positioning for second balls, and relentless pressure right from the kick-off has set them apart. Brentford’s centre-back, Kristoffer Ajer, has even joined the attack from the first whistle, showcasing the team’s tactical boldness.

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Why Wolves Are Vulnerable

Brentford’s upcoming opponents, Wolverhampton, provide a perfect opportunity to continue this streak. Wolves have conceded 16 goals so far this season, making them the Premier League’s most fragile defence. They’ve also been particularly susceptible to set-pieces, conceding five goals from these situations. More worrying for Wolves is their tendency to concede early—two goals have come in the opening 15 minutes of matches this season.

Given Brentford’s strategy of pressing early and Wolves’ shaky defence, betting on an early goal at the Gtech Community Stadium looks like a smart play this weekend.

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Early Goal Trends Across Europe

Brentford aren’t the only team exploiting early-game weaknesses. Clubs across Europe are using quick attacks and set-pieces to score early in matches:

• Italy: Lazio have seen goals in the first 15 minutes in five out of their six matches, while AC Milan and Inter are also prolific in the opening stages.
• Germany: Stuttgart and Werder Bremen lead the Bundesliga in early goals, with a significant portion of their tallies coming from set-pieces.
• Spain: La Liga’s Rayo Vallecano and Las Palmas have both made a habit of scoring early.

With these teams setting the trend, it wouldn’t be a huge surprise if we saw similar outcomes from them this weekend.

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Early Goal Flurry? The Games for Bettors to Target this Weekend

Brentford vs Wolverhampton: Early Goals	Odds
First 10 minutes: Goals Over 0.5	4.50
Goal before 27:00	1.83
Fiorentina vs AC Milan: Early Goals	Odds
First 10 minutes: Goals Over 0.5	4.33
Goal before 27:00	1.83
Stuttgart vs Hoffenheim: Early Goals	Odds
First 10 minutes: Goals Over 0.5	3.40
Goal before 20:00	1.83
Las Palmas vs Celta Vigo: Early Goals	Odds
First 10 minutes: Goals Over 0.5	4.50
Goal before 28:00	1.83

Odds courtesy of bet365. Correct at time of publishing and subject to change.

Read more: Marcelino’s Villarreal: Europe’s Freescorers