Wolves player sent off in controversial red card incident

Ladislav Krejci's dismissal proved costly as Wolves fell to defeat against Crystal Palace

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Wolverhampton Wanderers suffered a 1-0 defeat against Crystal Palace, with a controversial red card for defender Ladislav Krejci proving to be a key moment in the game. Krejci was sent off in the second half for two bookable offenses in quick succession, leaving Wolves down to 10 men. The decision was criticized by Wolves manager Rob Edwards, who felt it was a 'mistake' by the referee. Wolves had been the better team at that point and the red card allowed Palace to gain the upper hand. The defeat leaves Wolves still searching for their 20th Premier League win of the season, making it the earliest they have suffered 20 defeats in a campaign.

Why it matters

Wolves' season has been defined by poor discipline and decision-making, with the red card for Krejci the latest example. The club's struggles have left them battling relegation, with the team still a point short of the Premier League's record-low points tally. The incident highlights the fine margins in the Premier League and how a moment of indiscipline can prove so costly.

The details

In the 58th minute, Krejci was booked for a body check on Ismaila Sarr. Just three minutes later, after a throw-in had been awarded against him, Krejci played on and hooked the ball down the line, which the referee deemed to be delaying the restart. Krejci was shown a second yellow card and sent off, leaving Wolves down to 10 men. The decision was criticized by manager Rob Edwards, who felt Krejci was more culpable than the officials.

  • Krejci was booked in the 58th minute.
  • Krejci was sent off in the 61st minute.

The players

Ladislav Krejci

A defender for Wolverhampton Wanderers who was sent off in the second half of the match against Crystal Palace.

Rob Edwards

The head coach of Wolverhampton Wanderers, who criticized the red card decision but acknowledged it was a 'mistake' by Krejci.

Ismaila Sarr

A Crystal Palace player who was involved in the incident that led to Krejci's first booking.

Tom Kirk

The referee who showed Krejci the red card.

Evann Guessand

The Crystal Palace player who scored the winning goal in the dying seconds of the match.

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What they’re saying

“He's got to learn. Obviously at that moment he's frustrated but you can't do it.”

— Rob Edwards, Wolverhampton Wanderers head coach (nytimes.com)

“It was a mistake. It can happen, but it shouldn't.”

— Rob Edwards, Wolverhampton Wanderers head coach (nytimes.com)

What’s next

Wolves will be hoping Krejci learns from his mistake and avoids similar red card incidents in the future as they continue their battle against relegation.

The takeaway

Wolves' season has been plagued by poor discipline and decision-making, with the red card for Krejci the latest example. The club must address these issues if they are to avoid relegation and build a more successful future.