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Riccardo Calafiori’s second-half winner kept Arsenal in contention with Liverpool in the title race, as the Gunners recovered from Myles Lewis-Skelly’s controversial red card to secure a narrow 1-0 win against Wolves at Molineux.
Arsenal secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux on Saturday, January 25, 2025. The match was marked by controversy, with both teams reduced to ten men, but it was Riccardo Calafiori’s second-half goal that ultimately decided the game.
The match took a dramatic turn when Wolves defender Myles Lewis-Skelly was sent off in the 43rd minute for a high challenge on Matt Doherty. Referee Michael Oliver deemed it serious foul play, and VAR confirmed the decision. The dismissal left Wolves with a numerical disadvantage, but they managed to hold on until halftime.
The second half saw another red card, this time for Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes, who received a second yellow card for a high challenge on Jurrien Timber. The sending off further complicated matters for Wolves, who were now down to ten men as well.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Wolves put up a strong fight, but Arsenal capitalized on their extra man. Riccardo Calafiori, who came on as a substitute, scored the winning goal in the 74th minute. The Italian defender finished a cross from the box with a well-placed shot, securing the three points for Arsenal.
Both teams had their chances to score, but it was Arsenal who made the most of their opportunities. Kai Havertz missed three big chances in the penalty box, two before Lewis-Skelly’s red card and one when it was 10 vs 11. At the other end, Wolves’ Matheus Cunha had a deflected strike well-saved by David Raya, and he also miskicked an effort wide from a corner.
The victory keeps Arsenal within six points of Premier League leaders Liverpool, who beat Ipswich 4-1. Despite the challenges posed by the red cards, Arsenal showed resilience and determination to secure the win.
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