Arsenal struggled more than expected to secure a crucial 2–1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers on matchday 16 of the Premier League, played yesterday at the Emirates Stadium. The final score was narrow, but the three points allow the Gunners to consolidate and extend their lead at the top of the standings.

The match began with an Arsenal side that dominated possession and territory, though they lacked clarity in the final third. The opening goal came in the 70th minute in accidental fashion, when a corner kick from Bukayo Saka resulted in an own goal by Wolves goalkeeper Sam Johnstone after a poor clearance under pressure from the home attack.

Wolverhampton, who sit at the bottom of the league and are still without a win this season, refused to give up. In the 90th minute, substitute Tolu Arokodare leveled the score with a powerful header after a well-delivered cross. A draw seemed inevitable, but in stoppage time, another unfortunate own goal — this time by Yerson Mosquera under pressure from Gabriel Jesus — sealed the victory for Arsenal in the 94th minute.

With this win, Mikel Arteta’s side reached 36 points and extended their lead in the standings, moving five points clear of Manchester City, who have a game in hand. This cushion provides greater confidence heading into the busy Christmas period and strengthens their hopes of lifting the Premier League title at the end of the season.

Despite the victory, Arteta admitted after the match that his team was not at its best, particularly in finishing and during certain defensive phases, although he emphasized the importance of continuing to pick up points.