Bukayo Saka leads Arsenal to victory in 1st Prem match

Arsenal started the new Premier League season on a positive note, securing a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers. The match, held at the Emirates Stadium, saw Bukayo Saka shine as the key player for the Gunners. The young winger provided a perfect assist for the opening goal and scored the decisive second goal himself.

Difficult start for Arsenal

Mikel Arteta's side, however, did not have it all their own way. Wolverhampton Wanderers proved to be a resilient opponent, making Arsenal work hard for the three points. Despite their determination, Wolves were unable to break down a solid Arsenal defense, with goalkeeper David Raya producing a phenomenal save to deny Jørgen Strand Larsen from leveling the score. The match began with Arsenal exerting pressure from the outset. After 15 minutes, Saka showcased his skill by dribbling into the box and firing a shot at the near post. Wolves’ goalkeeper José Sá was up to the task, making a crucial save. Ben White followed up with another attempt, but his shot flew wide.

Saka and Havertz combine for the opening goal

Arsenal’s persistence eventually paid off in the 24th minute. Saka delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, where Kai Havertz met it with a powerful header, beating Sá to give the Gunners a 1-0 lead. This goal underscored Saka's growing influence on the team as both a creator and a scorer. Wolves had their chances as well, particularly through new signing Jørgen Strand Larsen. The former FC Groningen forward nearly equalized with a header, but David Raya’s outstanding reflex save kept Arsenal in front. Just before halftime, Gabriel Martinelli almost doubled the lead for Arsenal, but his shot went narrowly wide. After the break, Havertz had a chance to score his second of the day, but his weak effort with his right foot was easily dealt with by Sá.

Arsenal secure the victory

As the game progressed, Arsenal looked to add to their lead, with Thomas Partey firing a shot wide. Wolves, on the other hand, grew more confident and created some dangerous moments. Rayan Aït-Nouri came close to scoring after capitalizing on a mistake by Partey, but his powerful shot just missed the target. The visitors had another golden opportunity when Matheus Cunha found himself in front of goal, but the Brazilian forward failed to convert, shooting tamely at Raya. Wolves’ missed chances were costly, as Arsenal sealed the victory in the 75th minute.

Saka seals the Win

Saka, once again at the heart of the action, cut inside from the right and unleashed a fierce left-footed strike that beat Sá at the near post. His goal effectively ended Wolves’ hopes of a comeback and secured Arsenal’s first three points of the season. The match also saw Jurriën Timber make a late appearance, as he replaced Oleksandr Zinchenko, who had been preferred in the starting lineup. Summer signing Riccardo Calafiori remained on the bench for the duration of the match. With this 2-0 win, Arsenal has set the tone for the season, demonstrating both attacking flair and defensive resilience. Bukayo Saka’s performance, in particular, will give Arsenal fans plenty of optimism as the Gunners look to challenge for the Premier League title this season.