Arsenal dropped crucial points late Wednesday. The Gunners drew 2-2 with Wolves. This happened at Molineux Stadium. It was February 18, 2026. The result significantly impacts the Premier League title race. It offers renewed hope to rivals Manchester City. This news is trending in United Kingdom Sports news.
Early Lead for Gunners
Arsenal started brightly. Bukayo Saka scored early. It was in the fifth minute. He headed home a precise cross from Declan Rice. This ended Saka’s 15-match goalless streak. The goal gave Arsenal an immediate advantage. It was a welcome boost after recent struggles. Arsenal enjoyed significant possession. They looked in control for much of the first half. Wolves struggled to create clear chances. The score remained 1-0 at halftime.
Hincapie Doubles Advantage
Arsenal extended their lead after the break. Piero Hincapie scored in the 55th minute. It was his first goal for the club. Gabriel provided a defense-splitting pass. Hincapie finished calmly. This put Arsenal in a commanding 2-0 position. The Gunners appeared set for a vital victory. They aimed to extend their lead at the top. The result would have put them seven points clear.
Wolves Roar Back
Wolves refused to give up. They fought back with determination. Hugo Bueno pulled one back for Wolves. He scored a stunning curling shot. This happened just past the hour mark in the 61st minute. Bueno’s goal reignited the home crowd. It also put Arsenal on notice. The momentum shifted visibly. Arsenal began to look nervous. Wolves grew in confidence. They pushed for an equalizer.
Late Drama Seals Draw
Extraordinary scenes unfolded late on. In stoppage time, chaos struck Arsenal’s defense. A mix-up occurred between goalkeeper David Raya and defender Gabriel. This created a chance for Wolves’ substitute Tom Edozie. Edozie’s shot struck Riccardo Calafiori. It deflected into the net for an own goal. This happened in the 94th minute. The equalizer was a huge blow to Arsenal. It secured a dramatic 2-2 draw for Wolves. The home side celebrated wildly. Arsenal players looked shell-shocked.
Title Race Implications
This result significantly impacts the title race. Arsenal’s lead over Manchester City is now only five points. City also has a game in hand. For a second consecutive league match, Arsenal failed to hold a lead. They previously drew 1-1 with Brentford. This inconsistency fuels City’s challenge. Arsenal have won only two of their last seven league games. They are showing signs of pressure. This outcome offers a major boost to Manchester City’s hopes.
Arteta’s Disappointment
Manager Mikel Arteta expressed his frustration. He stated the team had to blame themselves. Arteta felt the second-half performance dropped below required standards. He highlighted basic errors. Arteta acknowledged the team did not show dominance. He stated they must accept the hit. The manager called for immediate improvement. Arsenal faces a tough run of fixtures ahead. This includes the North London derby.
Conclusion
Arsenal’s draw at Wolves is a major setback. It highlights their struggles to maintain consistency. The late collapse raises questions about their title credentials. Wolves earned a valuable point. It shows their fighting spirit. The Premier League title race is now wide open. Arsenal must regroup quickly. Future matches will be crucial. The focus remains on improving performances. The pursuit of the title continues.
