Arsenal locked horns with Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Molineux earlier tonight. The visitors started the game in a positive fashion as Bukayo Saka and Nicolas Pepe hit the woodwork early in the match; however, it was the latter who produced a moment of individual brilliance to provide the away side with the lead. Things came crashing down as David Luiz was sent off deep into the first-half after a challenge on Willian Jose inside the penalty area. It allowed Ruben Neves to equalise from the spot, following which Moutinho put the hosts in lead with a superb striker from distance. Bernd Leno’s sending off in the 72nd minute added to Arteta’s miseries as the game ended 2-1.
Let’s take a look at how each Arsenal player fared during the clash against the Wolves.
Bernd Leno – 4/10
The German shot-stopper caused a huge blunder in the second-half as he was straightaway shown a red card for handling the ball outside of his penalty area.
Cedric Soares – 5/10
The Portuguese full-back showed an attacking intent down the left-hand side but left spaces in the defence.
David Luiz – 4.5/10
One might argue that the Brazilain centre-back was sent off for a foul he didn’t commit. Nonetheless, he conceded the penalty which led to the equalising goal for the hosts.
Rob Holding – 6/10
The English defender made some brilliant tackles and clearances to keep his side in the game. There’s nothing he could have done about either of the goals conceded.
Hector Bellerin – 6/10
The German right-back put up a decent performance tonight but he had numerous nervy moments against Pedro Neto throughout the ninety minutes.
Granit Xhaka – 6/10
The Swiss international’s duties were mostly limited to his own half of the pitch, especially after the dismissal of David Luiz.
Thomas Partey – 6.5/10
The Ghana international pulled the strings in midfield for the visitors as he sprayed some important passes to help his side build attacks.
Bukayo Saka – 6.5/10
Saka created menace for Nuno’s men down the right-wing as he used his pace to glide past the Wolves’ backline. He hit the bar in the first minute of the game and even scored a goal, which was later ruled offside.
Nicolas Pepe – 7/10
The Ivorian international scored a brilliant solo goal in the first-half as he cut inside from the left flank, dribbled past two Wolves players and slotted the ball past Rui Patricio effortlessly. Was replaced by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang at the 61-minute-mark.
Emile Smith Rowe – 6/10
The 20-year-old playmaker played his part well as he created numerous chances for the frontmen in the first half. However, the numbers dipped in the second half as the Gunners were a man down.
Alexandre Lacazette – 6/10
The Frenchman put up an encouraging performance in the first forty-five minutes as linked up the attacking play well, but he had to make way for Gabriel in the second half.
SUBSTITUTES:
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang– 5/10
The Gabonese striker didn’t have much to work with.
Gabriel – 6/10
Provided the Gunners with an additional defensive figure at the back.
Runar Alex Runarsson – 6.5/10
The Iceland international made some important saves after coming on.
