adminBREAKING: Chelsea penalty decision explained after VAR intervention has Crystal Palace fuming
Chelsea were awarded a penalty in the second half of their match against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Sunday afternoon, sparking frustration among Palace fans after referee Darren England’s explanation.
The incident occurred when Joao Pedro’s shot struck the arm of Jaydee Canvot in the 59th minute, with Chelsea already leading 2-0.
Initially, England dismissed appeals for a penalty, but VAR intervened moments later, prompting the referee to review the incident on the pitch-side monitor. England paused play and walked over to examine the footage, while players from both sides gathered behind him.
Replays showed that although Canvot’s arm was in a natural position, Pedro’s on-target shot had indeed struck the Palace defender’s arm, preventing a clear goal-scoring opportunity.
After reviewing the footage, England awarded Chelsea a penalty, ruling it an accidental handball. He explained: “After review, the ball hits Crystal Palace 23. It is an accidental handball, not deliberate, therefore it is a penalty kick.”
The decision added to the frustration of Palace supporters, who had already been disappointed by their team’s performance. Chelsea opened the scoring in the 34th minute when Estevao netted a stunning solo goal.
The Brazilian winger seized a loose ball in his own half, sprinted toward Palace’s box, and finished with precision from close range.
Pedro doubled Chelsea’s advantage five minutes into the second half, driving at pace down the right before slotting the ball between the legs of goalkeeper Henderson. Fernandez then converted the penalty in the 64th minute to make it 3-0.
Palace’s struggles worsened when Adam Wharton received a second yellow card for a late challenge on Moises Caicedo with around 20 minutes left.
Looking ahead, Chelsea will face Napoli in the Champions League on Wednesday as they aim to secure automatic qualification for the knockout stages. Crystal Palace, meanwhile, have a week to regroup before traveling to the City Ground to face Nottingham Forest on Sunday, February 1.
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