EPL: Why VAR Overturned Eberechi Eze’s Free-Kick Goal Against Chelsea

Fresh details have emerged explaining why the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) disallowed Eberechi Eze’s spectacular free-kick goal during Crystal Palace’s Premier League clash against Chelsea.

The Palace midfielder believed he had put his side ahead after striking a brilliant set-piece past Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sánchez. The moment briefly lifted the home fans, who erupted in celebration, thinking the Eagles had taken the lead.

However, VAR intervened to review the incident before confirming that the goal would not stand. The controversy centered on Marc Guehi’s positioning and movement during the free-kick. Guehi was judged to have committed an infringement against Chelsea midfielder Moisés Caicedo in the build-up to the strike.

According to the Premier League’s Match Centre update, Guehi was deemed to have been within one metre of the Chelsea defensive wall as the free-kick was taken — a direct violation of the laws of the game. The rule clearly states that attacking players must remain at least one metre away from the defending wall when a direct free-kick is being executed.

The official referee announcement following the VAR review read:

“After review, away number six is less than one metre away from the wall as the shot is taken. Therefore, it’s an indirect free kick and the goal is disallowed.”

This ruling meant that Eze’s goal, despite its technical brilliance, was nullified due to Guehi’s positioning error. The decision sparked frustration among Palace supporters, while Chelsea players quickly resumed play after the referee’s final call.

The incident highlights the strict interpretation of set-piece rules in the Premier League, particularly concerning player positioning around the defensive wall. It also reinforces how VAR continues to play a decisive role in shaping crucial match outcomes.

Football analysts argue that while the decision was technically correct according to the International Football Association Board (IFAB) laws, it also underscores how minor infractions can overturn major game-changing moments.

For Eze and Crystal Palace, the disallowed goal was a painful reminder of how fine margins define the Premier League’s biggest matches.