LONDON — Arsenal kicked off their Premier League season with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.
Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka scored for the Gunners, who dominated possession and created numerous chances throughout the match.
Arsenal took the lead in the 25th minute when Havertz headed in a cross from Saka. The German international, a summer signing from Chelsea, connected with Saka’s precise delivery to beat Wolves goalkeeper Jose Sa.
Wolves nearly equalized ten minutes before halftime. Jorgen Strand Larsen’s powerful header seemed destined for the net, but Arsenal’s new goalkeeper David Raya made a crucial save to maintain the lead.
Arsenal controlled the first half, holding 64% possession and taking ten shots to Wolves’ three.
The visitors showed improved energy after the break, putting pressure on Arsenal’s defense. Rayan Ait-Nouri’s long-range effort narrowly missed Raya’s post, prompting Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta to make a defensive substitution. Jurrien Timber replaced Oleksandr Zinchenko with 20 minutes remaining.
Saka sealed the victory for Arsenal in the latter stages of the match, cutting inside and firing a powerful shot past Sa. The exact time of the goal was not specified in the initial report.
Arsenal had several other opportunities throughout the game. Ben White saw a long-range effort deflected early on, while Thomas Partey struck wide of the post in the second half.
Havertz missed a chance to double his tally shortly after halftime, slicing a shot wide when well-positioned.
Arsenal’s new signing Declan Rice left the field in the final five minutes with an apparent injury. However, he took a seat on the bench immediately, suggesting the substitution may have been precautionary.
The win marks a strong start to Arsenal’s campaign as they look to build on last season’s second-place finish.
Wolves, under new management, showed resilience in defense but struggled to create consistent scoring opportunities. Riccardo Calafiori, a new signing for Wolves, was an unused substitute.
