Arsenal’s Late Collapse at Molineux
Arsenal squandered a commanding 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 with relegation-threatened Wolves at Molineux Stadium, delivering a significant setback to their Premier League title aspirations. The Gunners appeared poised to extend their lead over Manchester City to seven points but now sit five points clear, with City holding a game in hand.
The match unfolded as a potential routine victory until a second-half error spree triggered panic. David Raya’s fumble on a high ball led to teenage substitute Tom Edozie’s dramatic equalizer in the fourth minute of stoppage time on his Premier League debut, deflecting off Riccardo Calafiori over the line.
Key Goals and Turning Points
Bukayo Saka opened the scoring in the fifth minute, nodding home Declan Rice’s precise cross through Jose Sa’s legs while deployed in a central No. 10 role due to injuries. Piero Hincapie doubled the advantage just before the hour mark, converting Gabriel’s threaded pass for his first Arsenal goal, confirmed onside by VAR.
Wolves mounted a comeback with Hugo Bueno’s stunning curled strike reducing the deficit. Arsenal’s defense unraveled amid mounting mistakes, culminating in the chaotic late equalizer. Tensions boiled over post-whistle as Gabriel Jesus shoved Yerson Mosquera, sparking a melee.
Arteta’s Frustration Boils Over
Mikel Arteta cut a drenched, furious figure on the sideline, later describing the collapse bluntly: “It was one after the other, to be fair. It was a moment after another moment after another moment.” He offered no excuses, acknowledging mentality concerns as errors piled up on a frigid night.
Saka Shines in Unfamiliar Role
With Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz, and Mikel Merino sidelined, Saka thrived centrally, roaming effectively with driving runs, precise passes, and creative flair. His withdrawal late on appeared precautionary amid a recent hip issue. Viktor Gyokeres struggled upfront, managing just eight goals this season, underscoring the urgency for Havertz’s return ahead of the North London derby.
Match Facts and Lineups
Wolverhampton Wanderers (3-4-2-1): Sa; Mosquera, S Bueno, Krejci; Tchatchoua (R Gomes 70), A Gomes (Arokodare 22), Andre, H Bueno; Mane, Bellegarde (Edozie 83); Armstrong. Manager: R Edwards.
Arsenal (4-2-3-1): Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie; Zubimendi, Rice; Madueke (Eze 65), Saka (Trossard 73), Martinelli; Gyokeres (Jesus 65). Manager: M Arteta.
Referee: P Tierney. Attendance: 29,843.
This draw haunts Arsenal, echoing past title near-misses, as they desperately seek stability to halt the slide.
