Arsenal disappoint at Molineux in 2-2

Premier League leaders Arsenal surrendered two late points as they were held to a dramatic 2-2 draw by bottom-of-the-table Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux Stadium on Wednesday night. 

A stoppage-time own goal from Riccardo Calafiori denied the Gunners victory and left their players stunned at the final whistle.

Arsenal made the perfect start, taking the lead inside five minutes when Bukayo Saka finished confidently from close range after being set up by Declan Rice. 

Mikel Arteta’s side controlled much of the first half and went into the break 1-0 ahead, appearing comfortable against a Wolves team fighting to climb off the foot of the table.

The visitors doubled their advantage 11 minutes into the second half. Pervis Hincapié rose to meet Gabriel Magalhães’ delivery and powered home to make it 2-0, seemingly putting Arsenal in command.

But Wolves responded swiftly, with Hugo Bueno pulling a goal back on the hour mark to spark belief among the home supporters.

As the match wore on, Arsenal struggled to regain control. Wolves pressed forward with urgency, knowing they had little to lose, while the league leaders appeared increasingly nervous. 

David Raya was forced into action, and the Gunners’ defence came under sustained pressure in the closing stages.

Deep into stoppage time, the hosts found their equaliser in chaotic fashion. After Raya failed to deal cleanly with a cross, Tom Edozie’s goalbound effort deflected off Calafiori and looped over the line for an own goal, sending Molineux into raptures. 

The late leveller was officially credited as a Calafiori own goal, compounding Arsenal’s frustration. The result leaves Arsenal five points clear of second-placed Manchester City, but it will feel like a significant opportunity missed in the title race. 

Wolves, meanwhile, remain bottom of the table and still 17 points from safety, yet this spirited comeback could prove a rare bright spot in a difficult campaign.