Arsenal squandered a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with bottom-of-the-table Wolves at Molineux, delivering a significant setback to their Premier League title aspirations. The result allows Manchester City to narrow the gap to two points with a victory in their game in hand.
Dramatic Late Collapse
Arsenal surged ahead after five minutes when Bukayo Saka headed home Declan Rice’s precise cross through goalkeeper Jose Sa’s legs. Piero Hincapie doubled the lead just before the hour mark, netting his first goal for the club with a clinical finish from Gabriel’s threaded pass, confirmed onside after VAR review.
Wolves mounted a comeback in the second half. Hugo Bueno curled in a stunning strike to halve the deficit. Tension escalated in stoppage time as David Raya spilled a high ball under pressure from Gabriel, allowing debutant Tom Edozie’s shot to deflect off Riccardo Calafiori and cross the line. Arsenal players slumped to the turf, stunned by the late equalizer.
Frustration boiled over post-match, with Gabriel Jesus shoving Yerson Mosquera, sparking a brief skirmish.
Saka Excels in Central Role
With Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz, and Mikel Merino sidelined by injury, Saka thrived as a No. 10 for the second straight game. The 24-year-old roamed the pitch, delivering key passes, driving runs, and drifting wide. His performance offered a glimpse of his evolving versatility, though he exited after a heavy challenge as a precaution.
Arteta Demands Accountability
Mikel Arteta cut a drenched, furious figure on the touchline amid mounting errors. In his post-match remarks, he addressed the lapses bluntly: “It was one after the other, to be fair. It was a moment after another moment after another moment.” He did not shy away from questions over the team’s mentality.
Viktor Gyokores struggled upfront, managing just eight goals this season. Havertz’s potential return for Sunday’s North London derby cannot come soon enough to halt the slump.
Title Race Implications
Arsenal remain five points clear at the top but rue a missed chance to extend their lead to seven. The draw evokes memories of past title collapses, with fans chanting taunts echoing in the frigid night air. Arteta’s side must regroup swiftly to maintain their challenge.
