Arsenal defeated Wolves to keep their title ambitions alive while pushing the Old Gold deeper into the relegation battle.
Wolves hosted Arsenal at Molineux in a crucial Premier League clash, with the opportunity to pull away from the relegation zone hanging in the balance.
Just before halftime, Wolves received a significant advantage when Myles Lewis-Skelly was shown a straight red card for a dangerous tackle on Matt Doherty.
However, despite the numerical advantage, Wolves failed to take control of the match and were soon reduced to 10 men themselves when Joao Gomes was handed a second yellow card with 20 minutes remaining.
Arsenal ultimately triumphed 1-0, with Riccardo Calafiori scoring the decisive goal in the 74th minute.
Vitor Pereira Faces Criticism for Joao Gomes’ Red Card
Having already received a yellow card in the first half, Joao Gomes was walking a tightrope given the physical nature of Arsenal’s play. Fans were left wondering whether Pereira would risk keeping him on the pitch for the second half.
To many’s surprise, Pereira chose to keep Gomes on, a decision that would prove costly. The Brazilian was eventually sent off for a reckless challenge on Jurrien Timber.
“If you can’t trust a player, then you’ve got to look at the manager and ask, ‘Why didn’t you take him off?’” commented Premier Sports analyst Gary Breen.
While it’s hard to dispute Breen’s point, it’s crucial to recognize the limited options available to Pereira. His bench featured players like Tommy Doyle and Jean-Ricner Bellegarde, neither of whom would have significantly improved their chances against Arsenal—even with the extra man.
Upcoming Challenges for Wolves
The loss to Arsenal was always going to be tough, but things won’t get easier for Pereira as the season continues. Wolves’ next three Premier League fixtures are against rivals Aston Villa, table-toppers Liverpool, and a strong Bournemouth side led by Andoni Iraola.
Pereira may be focused on his immediate challenges, but he also has to plan for life without Joao Gomes in midfield. Gomes’ red card means he’ll be suspended for Wolves’ next match, forcing the manager to find a replacement for the upcoming Midlands derby against Aston Villa.
What Vitor Pereira did against Arsenal blamed for Wolves defeat – it changed the whole game
