Arsenal fans defend Calafiori after involvement in late Wolves equaliser

Arsenal threw away a 2-0 lead at last-placed Wolverhampton Wanderers last night in the Premier League, as the Gunners lost valuable momentum in the title race – with just a two point lead if Manchester City win their game in hand.

Riccardo Calafiori was at the centre of much of the drama yesterday evening, coming on as a late substitute for an injured Leandro Trossard before being involved in the stoppage-time equaliser that gave Wolves a prideful point against the league leaders.

After a mix-up between goalkeeper David Raya and centre-back Gabriel, Wolves youngster Edozie was quickest to react and fired a shot goalwards.

The shot flew past Raya, before bouncing off Gabriel and onto the post, before bouncing back into the goalmouth, off Calafiori, and over the line.

Initially the goal was credited as a Calafiori own goal before it was given to Edozie in the end.

In fairness, there was not much that the Italian could have done – his body weight was already where it was and much of the blame can be placed on Gabriel and Raya for their mix-up which allowed the chance to materialise in the first place.

And Arsenal fans have leapt to the Italian’s defence on social media.

Arsenal fans react to Calafiori

“I actually felt really sorry for Calafiori last night,” one user wrote on X, “his face said it all and he did everything he could to stop that goal.”

“Leave Riccardo Calafiori out of this,” said another, “it’s between David Raya, Gabriel Magalhaes and Mikel Arteta.”

 

I actually felt really sorry for Calafiori last night. He’s face said it all and he did everything he could to stop that goal. pic.twitter.com/xOxWSmnLTs

— Sir Johnny OBE (@Farmer_Boycie) February 19, 2026

Leave Riccardo Calafiori out of this. It’s between David Raya, Gabriel Magalhaes and Mikel Arteta pic.twitter.com/4NDzXmKmqO

— Triple M (@Tripple____M) February 19, 2026

Arsenal fans coming for Riccardo Calafiori for this goal need to chill. First of all look at Martin Zubimendi then David Raya and Gabriel Marghaleas. This goal has nothing to do with Calafiori pic.twitter.com/cYQKy2i4aS

— ISAAC (@Isaac_AFC_) February 19, 2026