Arsenal Secures Narrow 1-0 Win Over Wolves Amid Controversial Red Cards

WOLVERHAMPTON, England — Arsenal edged out a 1-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers in a tense Premier League clash on Saturday, a match marred by controversial red cards and a dramatic late winner from substitute Riccardo Calafiori. The Gunners overcame the dismissal of teenage defender Myles Lewis-Skelly in the first half and capitalized on Wolves’ João Gomes‘ second yellow card to secure three crucial points in their title chase.

The game took a dramatic turn in the 43rd minute when Lewis-Skelly was shown a straight red card for a trip on Matt Doherty just outside the Wolves box. Referee Michael Oliver deemed the challenge as ‘serious foul play,’ a decision that left Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and his players visibly frustrated. Despite being reduced to 10 men, Arsenal held firm and found their breakthrough in the 74th minute when Calafiori, brought on as a substitute, swept home a left-footed finish from Gabriel Martinelli‘s cross.

Wolves, already struggling with a fourth consecutive defeat, were further hampered when Gomes received his second yellow card in the 70th minute for a late challenge on Jurriën Timber. The dismissal tilted the balance in Arsenal’s favor, and Calafiori’s goal sealed the win, keeping the Gunners six points behind league leaders Liverpool.

Arteta praised his team’s resilience, saying, ‘We showed great character to win this game. The red card was harsh, but the players adapted brilliantly, and Riccardo’s goal was a moment of quality.’ Wolves’ frustrations were compounded by the absence of their only recognized striker, Jørgen Strand Larsen, who limped off injured in the first half.

The match was not without its missed opportunities. Arsenal’s Kai Havertz squandered several chances, including a close-range header that sailed over the bar. Wolves, too, had their moments, with Matheus Cunha forcing a save from Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya. However, the home side’s inability to capitalize on their numerical advantage ultimately cost them.

The result leaves Wolves languishing in the lower half of the table, while Arsenal’s title hopes remain alive, albeit with Liverpool holding a game in hand. The Gunners’ discipline under Arteta continues to be a concern, with Lewis-Skelly’s red card marking the 19th dismissal during the Spaniard’s tenure.