Fans outraged as VAR rules out Eberechi Eze's stunning free kick

In England, Chelsea faced Crystal Palace in their Premier League opener, which ended in a 0-0 draw on August 12, 2025. Throughout the match, VAR's role came under scrutiny after Eberechi Eze's impressive free kick was disallowed by referee Darren England. The decision stemmed from Eze's teammate, Marc Geuhi, being positioned less than one meter from the Chelsea wall at the time the free kick was taken, a violation of the regulations governing the play. This incident prompted widespread criticism from fans, who felt that VAR's intervention marred what could have been a pivotal moment in the game. Estevao, a teenage sensation, made his competitive debut for Chelsea and exhibited promising skills, although Chelsea struggled offensively without the contributions of key player Cole Palmer. The team relied heavily on Palmer's creativity, which underscored the need for additional contributions from other players in their attack. Despite having a wealth of options across the forward line, Chelsea's lack of goals in the match against Crystal Palace highlighted their vulnerabilities when Palmer's influence was diminished. Fans expressed profound disappointment at the team's failure to capitalize on their chances, particularly with the disallowed goal further inflaming their frustrations. The match began with high expectations, but the 0-0 draw left both teams grappling with missed opportunities. For Chelsea, the failure to score in a home opener raised questions about their attacking strategy and ability to perform under pressure without relying solely on their star forward. For Crystal Palace, while the disallowed goal was a setback, the match still offered valuable insights into their defensive organization and resilience against a side with significant attacking potential. As the Premier League season progresses, both teams must address the issues revealed in this match. In the aftermath, discussions about the efficacy of VAR continued, with fans and pundits alike questioning its role in the game. Many felt that the regulations needed reassessment to prevent such contentious interventions that can overshadow crucial moments. Additionally, the scrutiny surrounding Eze's potential transfer to Tottenham Hotspur added another layer of intrigue to the story. As both teams seek to improve their seasons, the controversial VAR decision may linger in the minds of players and fans as a reminder of how critical such moments can be in shaping their campaigns.