Wolverhampton Wanderers lost 1-0 to Crystal Palace in the Premier League at Selhurst Park on February 22, 2026. Tolu Arokodare missed a crucial penalty in the 43rd minute. Dean Henderson saved his effort comfortably. Palace scored the winner through Jean-Philippe Mateta in the 65th minute.
Penalty Miss Sparks Backlash
Arokodare earned the penalty after a foul inside the box. However his shot lacked power and Henderson parried it away. Fans expressed frustration online immediately after the match. Yet some messages crossed into racism.
Racist Messages Surface
Arokodare received abusive direct messages on Instagram. Perpetrators used slurs like “monkey” and the N-word. Additionally, some linked the abuse to gambling losses. Arokodare shared screenshots to highlight the issue.
Wolves Issue Strong Condemnation
Wolves released a statement on social media. The club stated, “We are disgusted by numerous instances of racist abuse, from multiple perpetrators, directed at Tolu Arokodare on social media following today’s fixture against Crystal Palace.” They reported the incidents to platforms and authorities. Furthermore, Wolves pledged support for Arokodare.
Arokodare Speaks Out
Arokodare responded on his Instagram story. He stated, “It’s still unbelievable to me that we’re playing in a time where people have so much freedom to communicate such racism without any consequences.”
He added, “These individuals should have no place in our game and collectively we have to take action to punish everyone who taints the sport like this, no matter who they are.”
Wider Weekend Incidents
This event marked the third case of racist abuse that weekend. Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana and Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejbri also shared similar messages. Meanwhile authorities continued investigations into online discrimination in football.
