Eberechi Eze’s stunning free-kick against Chelsea was disallowed after a VAR review, and the Premier League has clarified the reason behind the decision.
Eberechi Eze’s Disallowed Goal Against Chelsea Explained
Eberechi Eze’s stunning free-kick against Chelsea was disallowed after a VAR review, and the Premier League has clarified the reason behind the decision. According to referee Darren England, Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi was less than one meter away from the Chelsea wall when Eze took the shot, which is an infringement of the rules ¹.
The Rule Behind the Decision
The International Football Association Board (IFAB) Law 13 states that when three or more defending team players form a wall, all attacking team players must remain at least one meter away until the ball is in play. If an attacking player is less than one meter away from the wall, an indirect free kick is awarded ².
Reaction to the Decision
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner believes the Premier League needs to be careful when applying this law, as it can be harsh on players. He stated, “I know we have to be one yard away from the wall… But the Premier League has to be careful when they disallow these kind of goals.” Former footballer Micah Richards commented that it feels like VAR is against goals, while Roy Keane emphasized that attacking teams need to be aware of this rule ².
Impact on the Game
The disallowed goal could have potentially changed the course of the game, but Crystal Palace had to deal with the decision and move forward. Eze’s performance was notable, despite the controversy surrounding the disallowed goal ¹.
Transfer Speculation
- Eze’s future at Crystal Palace remains uncertain, with Tottenham Hotspur reportedly interested in signing him for around £60 million. The disallowed goal adds to the spotlight on Eze, who has been linked to a move away from Selhurst Park ¹.
