Arsenal’s title push dented after two-goal collapse at Wolves
Arsenal F.C. missed the opportunity to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table after surrendering a 2-0 advantage to draw against bottom-placed Wolverhampton Wanderers F.C. in a dramatic encounter at Molineux.
The Gunners appeared to be cruising after taking firm control of the contest, but a late defensive lapse cost them dearly as Wolves snatched an unlikely equaliser in stoppage time.
Arsenal took the lead as early as the fifth minute when Bukayo Saka marked his new contract with a goal, heading home a precise cross from Declan Rice. The England forward’s strike ended a 15-game goal drought in all competitions and came just a day after signing a fresh five-year deal at the Emirates Stadium.
The visitors doubled their advantage in the 56th minute when Piero Hincapié calmly finished from a pass by Gabriel Magalhães, netting his first goal for the club to give Arsenal what seemed a commanding cushion.
However, Wolves mounted a spirited comeback. Hugo Bueno ignited hope for the hosts with a stunning curling effort in the 61st minute after Saka had been forced off following treatment.
As pressure mounted late on, confusion between goalkeeper David Raya and Gabriel proved costly. In the fourth minute of added time, 19-year-old debutant Tom Edozie fired in a shot that deflected off Riccardo Calafiori and went in off the post to level the score.
Tempers flared at the final whistle, with Gabriel Jesus involved in a shove on Yerson Mosquera as frustration spilled over.
The result leaves Arsenal five points clear of Manchester City F.C., although Pep Guardiola’s side have a game in hand. It represents a significant setback for manager Mikel Arteta and his players in their bid for a first league title since 2004.
Despite the disappointment, Arsenal remain in contention on multiple fronts. They are set to face Manchester City in next month’s Carabao Cup final, have progressed to the last 16 of the Champions League after topping their league phase group, and are also through to the FA Cup fifth round.
Nevertheless, the dramatic draw is likely to reignite questions about Arsenal’s staying power, having finished runners-up in each of the past three Premier League campaigns.
