​”You monkey” — Tolu Arokodare exposes racial abuse after Wolves’ loss at Crystal Palace

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Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare has exposed the racist abuse he received online in the aftermath of Wolverhampton Wanderers’ 1-0 loss to Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Sunday, Afrik-Foot reports.

​Arokodare endured a difficult afternoon for his side, missing two clear-cut chances to score within the opening 30 minutes.

He was handed a golden opportunity to redeem himself from the penalty spot just before the break, but Crystal Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson produced a sensational save, leaping to his left to deny the Nigerian’s effort.

 Tolu Arokodare of Wolverhampton Wanderers
Tolu Arokodare of Wolverhampton Wanderers (Photo credit: Imago)

​Things went from bad to worse for Rob Edwards’ men early in the second half when Ladislav Krejci was sent off following a second bookable offence.

Exploiting their numerical advantage, Crystal Palace pressed for a winner and eventually found it in the 90th minute through Evann Guessand.

The result leaves Wolverhampton Wanderers seriously close to having their relegation to the English Championship confirmed.

​Tolu Arokodare Exposes Racist Messages from Fans

​In the wake of the defeat, Arokodare became the target of a series of racist slurs from disgruntled fans.

Racists abuses on Tolu Arokodare
Racists abuses on Tolu Arokodare. (Photo credit: Tolu IG)
Racists abuses on Tolu Arokodare
Racists abuses on Tolu Arokodare
Racists abuses on Tolu Arokodare
Racists abuses on Tolu Arokodare
Racists abuses on Tolu Arokodare
Racists abuses on Tolu Arokodare

The Super Eagles star, who was unhappy about the incident, shared his frustration and disbelief at the vitriol directed toward him.

​”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,” Arokodare wrote.

“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”.

​Wolves Rally Behind Super Eagles Star

​Following the incident, Wolverhampton Wanderers released an official statement condemning the attacks in the strongest possible terms.

Tolu Arokodare warms up during the Premier League football match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Chelsea at Molineux stadium
Tolu Arokodare warms up during the Premier League football match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Chelsea at Molineux stadium. Photo by IMAGO

​”Wolves 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,” the club stated.

“There is no place for racism – in football, online, or anywhere in society. We condemn this abhorrent and unlawful behaviour in the strongest possible terms.”

​The club further emphasized that Arokodare has their “full and unwavering support,” noting that no player should be subjected to such hatred for simply doing their job. Wolves confirmed they have reported the posts to the relevant platforms and are working with the Premier League and authorities to ensure those responsible are identified.

​The battle against racism in football remains a tough one, and it seems to be unending. Hopefully, the individuals involved in Arokodare’s case will be brought to book soon.

<!-- Author Start -->Kelvin Omachonu<!-- Author End -->

Kelvin Omachonu

Sports Writer