Arsenal Secures Dramatic Last-Gasp Victory Against Wolves
Premier League leaders Arsenal snatched a crucial victory in a heart-stopping encounter at the Emirates Stadium, with a late own goal from Wolves’ Yerson Mosquera sealing a 2-1 win. The Gunners, fighting on multiple fronts, were made to work incredibly hard for all three points against a resolute Wolves side that frustrated them for large spells of the match.
The game’s narrative was one of persistent pressure from Arsenal and stout defence from the visitors. Wolves, rooted to the bottom of the league table, arrived with a clear game plan: to frustrate the league leaders and deny them space in behind. Their compact, five-man defensive unit proved exceptionally difficult to break down for much of the ninety minutes. Arsenal, accustomed to dictating play and creating numerous chances, found themselves repeatedly repelled by the disciplined Wolves backline.
The breakthrough, when it finally arrived, was a moment of individual brilliance and a touch of fortune. In the 70th minute, Bukayo Saka, a constant threat down the right flank, delivered a trademark curling corner. The ball, whipped with precision, seemed destined for the net before being tipped onto the post by the alert Sam Johnstone in the Wolves goal. In the ensuing scramble, the ball ricocheted off the unfortunate goalkeeper’s back and trickled over the line, giving Arsenal a much-needed lead.
However, the relief that swept through the Emirates was short-lived. As Arsenal sought to manage the game and see out the victory, a sense of nervousness began to creep in. This anxiety, coupled with Wolves’ growing desperation, allowed the visitors to launch a series of dangerous attacks. They began to put numerous balls into the Arsenal penalty area, testing the Gunners’ defence.
The pressure finally told in the 90th minute. A well-worked move from Wolves saw Mateus Mane deliver a pinpoint cross into the box. Tolu Arokodare rose highest and met the delivery with a powerful header, finding the back of the net and levelling the scores at 1-1. The goal sent a wave of despair through the home support, who feared that their title aspirations might have been handed a significant blow. The prospect of rivals Manchester City potentially moving level on points the following day, should they win their match against Crystal Palace, loomed large.
Just as the stadium seemed to be collectively holding its breath, anticipating a potentially damaging draw, Arsenal conjured a moment of pure drama. In the dying moments of the game, Bukayo Saka again found himself in a dangerous position, cutting inside from the right. He lofted a cross towards the substitute Gabriel Jesus, who was making his presence felt in the box. In a desperate attempt to clear the danger, Wolves defender Yerson Mosquera misjudged the flight of the ball and, in trying to head it away from his own goal, inadvertently directed it past his own goalkeeper.
The own goal, a cruel twist of fate for the visitors, sent the Emirates Stadium into raptures. The scenes of jubilation among the home support were immense, a mixture of relief and sheer elation at having secured a vital three points in the most dramatic of circumstances. The victory ensured that Arsenal maintained their position at the summit of the Premier League table, demonstrating their resilience and ability to find a way to win even when their backs are against the wall. The late drama underscored the unpredictable nature of the Premier League title race and highlighted Arsenal’s determination to fight for every point.
