Arsenal secured a narrow 2-1 victory against Wolverhampton in a tense match during the 16th round of the Premier League. Despite dominating the game, the Gunners had to wait until the dying moments to ensure all three points – thanks to two own goals by the visiting team.
Dominance without Reward
The action kicked off with Arsenal quickly taking control, pushing Wolves back and exploiting the wings, particularly through Bukayo Saka. In the opening minutes, Saka delivered a threatening cross that was headed off target by Jurriën Timber. Declan Rice also missed a chance following another Saka delivery.
Wolves had their first attempt just before the half-hour mark when Hwang Hee-Chan found space but fired a tame shot caught easily by David Raya. Moments later, Arteta was forced into an early change after Ben White suffered an injury.
As frustration started to build among the home fans, Arsenal continued to attack but lacked the finishing touch to break through. Before the break, Gabriel Martinelli squandered a few chances, while Piero Hincapié denied Wolves with an important block during stoppage time.
Second Half Breakthrough
The second half played out similarly, with Arsenal pressing and Wolves delaying at every opportunity, drawing boos from the crowd. Martinelli came close again before being substituted in a tactical triple change by Mikel Arteta. Emmanuel Agabdou blocked a shot from Mikel Merino, and Johnstone made key saves from Rice to keep Wolves in the game.
The breakthrough finally came midway through the second half. A corner from Saka was deflected onto the post by Johnstone, rebounded onto his back, and rolled over the goal line for the opener — an unfortunate own goal.
Late Drama at the Emirates
Arsenal pushed to make it safe, but Ødegaard, Trossard, and Gyökeres all missed their efforts. Then, in the final minute of regular time, Wolves equalized through a well-placed header by Toluwalase Arokodare after a flank cross from Mateus Mané, silencing the Emirates.
"However, just when it seemed Arsenal had let the win slip, another own goal salvaged their afternoon. In stoppage time, Yerson Mosquera misjudged a Saka cross and headed the ball past his own keeper, sealing a dramatic and much-needed win for the hosts."