In a dramatic finish at Emirates Stadium, Arsenal claimed a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Wolves, extending their lead at the top of the Premier League to five points. The win, which came courtesy of a 94th-minute own goal by Yerson Mosquera, was a testament to Arsenal’s resilience, though they were far from their best in this encounter.
Wolves, who are currently bottom of the Premier League table, put up a strong defensive display throughout the match. The Gunners struggled to break down Wolves’ five-man defense, but after 70 minutes, they finally found a breakthrough. Bukayo Saka’s curling corner was pushed onto the post by goalkeeper Sam Johnstone and bounced off his back into the net to give Arsenal a 1-0 lead.
However, the match took a dramatic turn in the 90th minute when Wolves equalized. Substitute Tolu Arokodare’s header from a Matheus Mane cross leveled the score, sending the Emirates crowd into despair as it looked like Gunners might drop points to title rivals Manchester City, who were due to play Crystal Palace on Sunday.
But in the final moments, Arsenal snatched a dramatic winner. Saka’s cross towards Gabriel Jesus was met by Mosquera, who inadvertently headed the ball into his own net under pressure. The own goal sent the home crowd into wild celebrations, and Arsenal walked away with all three points in a match they barely deserved to win.
Arsenal’s Performance: A Struggle Against Wolves’ Stubborn Defense
Arsenal’s performance was a mixed bag in their encounter with Wolves. For large portions of the game, they looked out of sorts, struggling to break down Wolves’ disciplined defense. The Gunners failed to register a shot on target in the first half, and their attack lacked fluidity, especially with Wolves adopting a low block.
Despite the early frustrations, Mikel Arteta’s side found their groove after a series of substitutions in the second half. However, they were far too passive after taking the lead and were punished by Wolves’ late equalizer. Gunner’s defensive lapses were evident, especially when they allowed Wolves to threaten in the closing stages of the match.
Despite the shaky performance, Arsenal managed to find a way to win, a quality that could prove vital in their bid for the Premier League title. Arteta will be pleased with the three points but will also know that improvements are needed in terms of consistency and managing games better, particularly when ahead.
Wolves’ Struggles Continue Despite Stubborn Performance
For Wolves, the defeat was a cruel blow. After fighting valiantly throughout the match, they were seconds away from earning a hard-earned draw, only to be undone by the own goal. Wolves’ defensive effort, led by Mosquera and goalkeeper Johnstone, had kept Arsenal at bay for long stretches, but a moment of misfortune in the dying seconds of the game proved to be their undoing.
Wolves had very few chances to score but took full advantage of their opportunities. Arokodare’s well-taken header in the 90th minute was a moment of quality in an otherwise frustrating night. However, Wolves’ poor run of form continues, with this defeat marking their 10th consecutive loss across all competitions. With just two points from their first 15 matches, Wolves’ survival hopes are becoming increasingly bleak, and the club’s lack of consistency will be a major concern going forward.
Arsenal’s 2-1 victory against Wolves was a relief for Arteta and his players after a difficult few weeks. The Gunners have struggled in recent matches, including a loss to Aston Villa and draws against Chelsea and Sunderland. These results have brought added pressure to their Premier League title challenge.
Mikel Arteta’s demanding nature and the pressure of chasing a title will test the squad as the season progresses. Arsenal will need to improve their consistency and ability to manage games more effectively, particularly when they are ahead. However, the victory against Wolves, although hard-fought, is a crucial step towards maintaining their title push. With Manchester City looming in the distance, every point matters for the North London club.
What’s Next for Arsenal and Wolves?
Arsenal will look to build on their narrow win when they face Everton in their next Premier League match on December 20th. The trip to Goodison Park will be another tough test for Arteta’s side as they look to keep pace with Manchester City.
For Wolves, their fight for survival continues as they prepare to host Brentford on December 20th. With no wins in their last 10 games, Wolves must start to pick up points soon if they are to avoid relegation.
FAQs
1. How did Arsenal beat Wolves?
Arsenal defeated Wolves 2-1 after a dramatic 94th-minute own goal by Yerson Mosquera. The game was tied 1-1 before Mosquera’s unfortunate header past his own goalkeeper handed Arsenal all three points.
2. What was Arsenal’s performance like against Wolves?
Arsenal struggled to break down Wolves’ defense, with a lack of intensity and missed chances in the first half. They managed to take the lead through a Sam Johnstone own goal but were pegged back by Wolves’ equalizer before Mosquera’s own goal secured the win.
3. How does Arsenal’s victory affect their title chances?
Arsenal’s win keeps them five points clear at the top of the Premier League. While they have been inconsistent in recent games, this victory is crucial as they continue their title charge, with Manchester City trailing closely behind.
4. How are Wolves performing this season?
Wolves are having a disastrous season, with just two points from 15 matches. They have lost 10 consecutive games in all competitions and are in serious danger of relegation unless they can start picking up points soon.
5. What is next for Arsenal and Wolves?
Arsenal will face Everton next, while Wolves will host Brentford. Both teams are hoping to continue their campaigns with important results. Arsenal will aim to keep their momentum going, while Wolves need to start winning to avoid relegation.
