Bukayo Saka engineers Arsenal’s victory over Wolves in Premier League opener

Bukayo Saka scores Arsenal's second goal in their 2-0 win over Wolves. Photo: Imago

Bukayo Saka engineers Arsenal’s victory over Wolves in Premier League opener

Joel Omotto 19:19 - 17.08.2024

The Gunners started their Premier League campaign with another clean sheet as Bukayo Saka led them to victory against Wolves.

Arsenal began their Premier League campaign with a solid 2-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Emirates Stadium, continuing their strong pre-season form.

Despite the visitors having an early opportunity—Matt Doherty's goal-bound shot was expertly blocked by Gabriel—the Gunners soon began to assert their dominance.

Bukayo Saka, in particular, was a constant threat, testing Wolves' goalkeeper Jose Sa on two occasions, though his attempts were repelled.

Arsenal's persistence paid off in the 27th minute. Saka delivered a precise cross into the box, where Kai Havertz capitalised on Sa's hesitation to head home the opener. The hosts had chances to extend their lead before halftime, with Havertz and Thomas Partey both coming close.

Wolves had their moments too, with Jorgen Strand Larsen's header brilliantly saved by new Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.

The second half saw Arsenal and Wolves both create opportunities. Havertz missed a chance on his weaker right foot, and Partey's long-range effort went just wide. Wolves' Rayan Ait-Nouri also tested Raya with a powerful strike that narrowly missed the target.

Wolves, growing in confidence, almost equalized when Matheus Cunha was presented with a chance following a misplaced pass by William Saliba, but his shot lacked the necessary power to trouble Raya.

Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard fired a fierce shot that was well-saved by Sa, but it was Saka who sealed the win with a decisive second goal. Combining with Havertz, Saka cut inside and struck a powerful shot into the near post, effectively securing the three points for Arsenal.

The win not only highlighted Arsenal's attacking prowess but also their defensive solidity, as they kept a clean sheet against a Wolves side struggling to find their form.

For Arsenal, this victory serves as a promising start to their Premier League title ambitions. Wolves, on the other hand, face the challenge of turning their fortunes around, having won just once in their last 11 league matches dating back to last season.

Arsenal will look to build on this performance as they aim for a strong season ahead, while Wolves, managed by Gary O'Neil, will seek to capitalise on the positives from this game to improve their league standing.