Chelsea 0–0 Crystal Palace | Premier League, Sunday 17 August 2025
Chelsea kicked off their Premier League campaign at Stamford Bridge with a frustrating goalless draw against Crystal Palace, though the biggest talking point was a controversial VAR decision in the first half.
In the 14th minute, Palace captain Eberechi Eze lit up the Bridge with a stunning free-kick that flew past Robert Sánchez into the top corner. The away end erupted in celebration, but moments later VAR intervened.
Replays showed Palace skipper Marc Guéhi standing too close to Chelsea’s defensive wall as the free kick was taken. Under IFAB Law 13, attacking players must remain at least one metre away from a defensive wall of three or more players. Referee Darren England, after consulting the pitchside monitor, ruled the goal out.
It was one of the first high-profile examples of the rule being enforced in the Premier League, and it left Palace players and fans furious. Manager Oliver Glasner admitted afterwards that the call was technically correct, but argued that applying the law so strictly could see “beautiful goals” wiped out every week.
The game ended 0-0, with Chelsea unable to break down a disciplined Palace defense. For all of Eze’s magic, it was VAR, not a striker, that had the final say on opening day at the Bridge.
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