Arsenal suffered a series of misfortunes in Tuesday's night's Premier League clash against Wolves, with David Luiz and Bernd Leno picking up red cards. In what was a gloomy night for the Gunners, Nicolas Pepe showed his quality once more, earning plaudits for scoring sensational solo-goal before his side collapsed to a 2-1 defeat at the Molineux.
Coming into the game off the back of a respective win and a draw against Southampton and Manchester United, the Gunners were buoyed to keep their charge for a top-four finish alive. Their desire lead them to opening the scoring through Bukayo Saka in the ninth minute but had the goal cancelled after the player appeared to be in an offside position during the build-up.
Not too long after, Nicolas Pepe put the North London club ahead with a fantastic solo-effort. The club's record signing picked up the ball out on the left flank and expertly maneuvered his way past challenges from Nelson Semedo and Ruben Neves, before slotting the ball past Rui Patricio in the Wolves goal.
NICOLAS PEPE!
— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) February 2, 2021
What a goal through the Wolves defense! #WOLARS pic.twitter.com/A80xRw5DT3
The momentum was however dealt a blow as David Luiz will leave the Gunners handicapped ahead of the half-time break. The Brazilian defender prevented a potential goal by bundling into Wolves' new-boy Willian Jose, subsequently drawing a straight red card while conceding a penalty. Ruben Neves then stepped up to tie the scores at a goal apiece.
Penalty to Wolves!
— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) February 2, 2021
Red card to David Luiz!
1-1 at the half! #WOLARS pic.twitter.com/zxmRuwoltS
The misery of Mikel Arteta's side was shortly compounded, with Joao Moutinho scoring a brilliant goal four minutes after play resumed in the second half. Bernd Leno then made the situation worse to pick up Arsenal's second red card of the night by rushing out of his goal and handling the ball while outside the box.
Leno red card.
— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) February 2, 2021
Arsenal down to NINE men. #WOLARS pic.twitter.com/YddpGMlhWb