Arsenal’s clinched a crucial 1-0 victory over Wolves at Molineux, keeping their Premier League title hopes alive despite being reduced to 10 men following Myles Lewis-Skelly’s contentious red card. Riccardo Calafiori emerged as the hero, netting the decisive goal in the second half, just minutes after Wolves’ Joao Gomes was also dismissed.
Lewis-Skelly’s Red Card Sparks Controversy
The match took a dramatic turn in the first half when Myles Lewis-Skelly was shown a straight red card for a challenge on Wolves defender Matt Doherty. The Arsenal youngster attempted to halt a Wolves counter-attack but was adjudged by referee Michael Oliver to have committed serious foul play, catching Doherty high on the leg. Despite protests from the Arsenal camp, VAR upheld the decision.
The call divided opinion among football pundits and fans. Sky Sports analyst Tim Sherwood was shocked, stating, “I cannot believe Michael Oliver has sent Lewis-Skelly off there.” Meanwhile, former referee Mike Dean acknowledged the challenge was risky but suggested it was not a clear-cut red card. Arsenal’s match-winner Riccardo Calafiori defended his teammate, revealing that Lewis-Skelly was devastated by the decision at halftime but ultimately relieved as Arsenal secured all three points.
Arsenal’s Struggles in Attack Exposed
Despite dominating possession, Arsenal’s struggled to convert their chances, highlighting their ongoing issues with finishing. Kai Havertz was particularly wasteful, missing three key opportunities to put the Gunners ahead. Two of those misses came before Lewis-Skelly’s dismissal, while another was squandered even after Arsenal had been reduced to 10 men.
At the other end, Wolves looked threatening, with Matheus Cunha coming close twice. His first effort, a deflected shot, was parried away by David Raya, and he later failed to make clean contact from a corner, missing a golden chance to put the hosts ahead. Arsenal’s inability to convert opportunities kept the game finely poised, leaving fans anxious as the match entered its final stages.
Joao Gomes Sees Red as Arsenal’s Capitalize
Just as Wolves seemed to gain control with a numerical advantage, they were dealt a blow of their own. Midfielder Joao Gomes was sent off for a reckless challenge on Arsenal’s Jurrien Timber, picking up his second yellow card. The decision left Wolves manager Vitor Pereira fuming on the touchline, knowing his side had surrendered their advantage.
The sending-off proved costly as Arsenal capitalized within minutes. Riccardo Calafiori, who had been solid defensively, popped up in Wolves’ penalty area to score the match-winner. The Italian latched onto a loose ball inside the box and calmly slotted it past the goalkeeper, sending the travelling Arsenal fans into raptures.
Calafiori’s Moment of Brilliance
As the clock ticked down, Arsenal’s manager Mikel Arteta made a decisive change, bringing on Riccardo Calafiori. The Italian defender, known for his composure and technical ability, delivered the breakthrough in the 83rd minute. After a well-worked move on the left flank, Calafiori latched onto a loose ball inside the box and executed a sublime finish past Wolves’ goalkeeper.
The goal sent the traveling Arsenal supporters into raptures, as they knew the three points were crucial in the title race. With his goal, Calafiori became the eighth different defender to score for Arsenal this season, highlighting the team’s impressive attacking contributions from the backline.
Arsenal Hold Firm to Stay in Title Race
With Wolves pushing for an equalizer, Arsenal’s defense stood firm. Raya Ait-Nouri had a clear chance to level the game, but David Raya produced a crucial save. Cunha also tried his luck from distance, but the Arsenal shot-stopper remained alert to preserve his clean sheet.
The win keeps Arsenal within six points of league leaders Liverpool, who cruised past Ipswich 4-0. Mikel Arteta’s side will take confidence from this hard-fought victory, but concerns remain over their finishing and discipline as the title race intensifies. With crucial fixtures ahead, Arsenal must sharpen their attack while keeping their composure if they hope to close the gap on the top.
What’s Next for Arsenal?
Arsenal now turn their attention to their midweek Champions League clash against Girona, where they aim to secure second place in their group. A win, coupled with a Barcelona defeat, would see them advance as runners-up. Following that, the Gunners face a crucial Premier League showdown against Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, a match that could have major implications for the title
