Arsenal’s Premier League title ambitions took a hit after they threw away a two-goal advantage to settle for a dramatic 2–2 draw against Wolves on Wednesday night.
Mikel Arteta’s men appeared to be cruising at Molineux following an early strike from Bukayo Saka and a second-half effort from Piero Hincapie, which had put them firmly in control.
However, the Gunners faltered late on. Hugo Bueno sparked Wolves’ comeback before Riccardo Calafiori inadvertently turned the ball into his own net in stoppage time after a mix-up involving goalkeeper David Raya and defender Gabriel Magalhaes.
It marked the second straight league match in which Arsenal failed to protect a lead, following last week’s 1–1 draw at Brentford.
The result is a significant setback for Arsenal, who have now won just two of their last seven league games, giving renewed hope to second-placed Manchester City in the title race. City trail by five points with a game in hand and are scheduled to host Arsenal in April.
Having previously surrendered strong positions in title battles with City, Arteta’s side now risk seeing history repeat itself. Signs of nerves were evident as the clock wound down at Molineux, underlining the mounting pressure in their bid for a first league crown since 2004.
Adding to Arteta’s concerns, Saka was forced off in the second half with a suspected knee injury. The England international recently signed a new contract to become the club’s highest-paid player, and a prolonged absence could severely dent Arsenal’s title hopes.
Despite sitting 17 points from safety with 11 games remaining, Wolves showed resilience with a spirited comeback.
Match Highlights
Deployed again in a central attacking role, Saka made an immediate impact, heading home Declan Rice’s pinpoint cross just five minutes in to end a 15-game goal drought.
Arsenal dominated the early stages, with Rice and Noni Madueke both going close. Wolves threatened sporadically, with Andre and Adam Armstrong testing the visitors from distance.
Arsenal doubled their lead in the 56th minute when Gabriel threaded a pass through to Hincapie, who fired home. The goal was initially ruled out for offside but stood after a VAR review.
Wolves responded in style, with Bueno curling a superb effort into the top corner to reduce the deficit. Arsenal failed to put the game to bed, and their profligacy proved costly.
In stoppage time, confusion in the Arsenal defence allowed Tom Edozie to fire goalward, with the ball deflecting off Calafiori into the net — sealing a stunning late equaliser and leaving Arteta’s side stunned.
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