Arsenal vs Wolves: Dec 13, 2025 – Match Analysis

Arsenal Clinch Vital victory Over Wolves with Two Own-Goals, Extend Premier League Lead

A dramatic late finish, fueled by two own-goals – the second deep into stoppage time – saw Arsenal overcome a resilient Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-1, extending their lead at the top of the premier League to five points. The Gunners, facing a potential stumble after a recent dip in form, secured a crucial three points in a match filled with late drama and defensive concerns.

Arsenal appeared to be heading for a frustrating draw after Tolu Arokodare equalized for Wolves in the 90th minute, canceling out an earlier own-goal from Wolves goalkeeper Sam Johnstone in the 70th minute. However, a moment of chaos in the fourth minute of added time proved decisive. Under pressure from substitute Gabriel Jesus,Yerson Mosquera headed a cross from Bukayo Saka past a stunned Johnstone,handing Arsenal a crucial three points.

City Loom as Wolves Sink Further

The victory puts pressure on Manchester City, who will have the possibility to reduce the gap to two points when they face Crystal Palace on Sunday. Conversely, Wolves remain firmly anchored to the bottom of the table with a mere two points from 16 games, suffering a ninth consecutive defeat.They are now just one game away from equaling Sheffield United’s record of 17 games without a win to start a Premier League season.

Defensive Concerns Mount for Arsenal

While the result is a positive one for Mikel Arteta’s side, defensive vulnerabilities remain a concern. The return of William Saliba from a four-match absence with an ankle injury was a welcome boost, but Ben White suffered a hamstring problem, lasting only 30 minutes at the Emirates. With Gabriel, Cristhian Mosquera, and Riccardo Calafiori already sidelined, White’s injury adds to a growing list of defensive absentees, perhaps threatening Arsenal’s consistency.

Frustrating First Half Gives Way to Dramatic Second

Arsenal were looking to rebound from a 2-1 defeat at Aston Villa last weekend, but struggled to break down a persistent Wolves side in the opening period. Hwang Hee-Chan had the best chance for Wolves in a largely uneventful first 45 minutes, but his effort was comfortably saved by David Raya.Arteta surprisingly refrained from making attacking changes at halftime,but eventually introduced Martin Ødegaard,Leandro Trossard,and Mikel merino in an attempt to inject more creativity into the attack.

controversial Tackle and Goalkeeping Blunder

The match saw a moment of controversy in the 66th minute when Hwang avoided a red card for a studs-up tackle on Myles Lewis-Skelly, sparking a furious reaction from Arteta. Despite a VAR review, the yellow card stood. shortly after,Johnstone produced a string of impressive saves,denying Declan Rice twice,before his misfortune led to the opening goal. Johnstone initially tipped saka’s corner onto the post, but the ball rebounded off him and over the line.

Late Equalizer and Decisive Own-Goal

Despite the setback, Wolves refused to surrender, and substitute Arokodare leveled the score in the 90th minute with a header from a Mateus Mane cross. However, Arsenal’s resilience was rewarded in the dying moments as Mosquera’s own-goal secured the victory. The win could prove to be a turning point in Arsenal’s pursuit of the Premier League title.

Information from The Associated Press and PA was used in this report.