Arsenal’s grip on the Premier League summit loosened further on Saturday after a dramatic 2-2 draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux, a result that could prove costly in the title run-in.
The Gunners appeared to be cruising. An early strike from Bukayo Saka set the tone, and a second-half goal from Piero Hincapie — his first for the club — doubled their advantage and seemingly put the contest beyond reach.
But the afternoon unravelled quickly.
Hugo Bueno’s superb long-range effort sparked belief in the hosts, shifting both momentum and atmosphere. Wolves sensed vulnerability, pressed aggressively, and were rewarded when substitute Tom Edozie netted a late equaliser on debut to complete the comeback and send the home crowd into raptures.
For Arsenal, it was a damaging reminder of how fine the margins have become.
The dropped points leave them just five clear of defending champions Manchester City, who also hold a game in hand. With momentum swinging, the psychological edge may now lie with Pep Guardiola’s side.
More concerning for Mikel Arteta is the pattern emerging. Arsenal have managed only two wins in their last seven league outings — hardly the form of a side intent on closing out a title race.
Arteta did not shy away from criticism.
“There are no excuses,” he admitted post-match. “Credit to Wolves, but we made very basic mistakes. At this stage of the season, that cannot happen.” The Spaniard urged his players to respond immediately, acknowledging that standards must rise if Arsenal are to fend off their challengers.
The timing makes the setback even more significant. City can reduce the gap to two points with victory in their game in hand, and a looming clash between the two sides in April threatens to shape the title narrative decisively.
Next up for Arsenal is the north London derby — another high-stakes encounter that offers both risk and opportunity. In a season defined by resilience and pressure, the Gunners must now show they can withstand both.
The title race is far from over. But the cushion is thinner, the scrutiny sharper, and the margin for error virtually gone.
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