Stamford Bridge, London – Chelsea triumphed 2-0 over Fulham in a Premier League clash marred by a controversial VAR decision that saw Josh King’s first-half goal ruled out, sparking outrage from the Fulham camp.
VAR Controversy Strikes Early
The drama unfolded in the 21st minute when Josh King thought he had given Fulham the lead, curling a shot into the bottom corner after a skilful run into the box. However, referee Rob Jones was instructed by VAR official Michael Salisbury to review the goal due to an alleged foul by Rodrigo Muniz on Chelsea’s Trevoh Chalobah in the build-up.
The incident in question occurred just moments before King’s strike, when Muniz appeared to step on Chalobah’s foot while shielding the ball. After reviewing the footage at the pitchside monitor, Jones disallowed the goal, citing Muniz’s “careless challenge” on Chalobah.
Fulham manager Marco Silva was incensed by the decision, calling it “unbelievable” and claiming it was a harsh call. “I don’t know where else the attacker can put his foot. It should stand,” Silva said post-match.
Despite the controversy, Chelsea responded well. Just before halftime, João Pedro headed in a brilliant cross to put the Blues ahead. Enzo Fernandez then sealed the victory in the second half, scoring from the penalty spot after Ryan Sessegnon was penalized for handling the ball in the area.
Jamie Carragher, speaking on Sky Sports, labeled the VAR decision “shocking,” criticizing the intervention as “neither clear nor obvious” and suggesting that referee Jones should have trusted his initial call.
