Eberechi Eze's Free-Kick Denied in Goalless Draw Against Chelsea

Eberechi Eze's Free-Kick Denied in Goalless Draw Against Chelsea

Eberechi Eze's Free-Kick Denied in Goalless Draw Against Chelsea

Eberechi Eze was denied a stunning free-kick goal, marking a potential fairytale ending in what could be his last Premier League appearance for Crystal Palace, as the match ended in a goalless draw against Chelsea.

The 27-year-old midfielder was uncertain for selection amid ongoing discussions with Tottenham but started the match at Stamford Bridge. He struck a powerful free-kick from 20 yards in the 13th minute.

However, the goal was disallowed by referee Darren England following a VAR review. The decision was based on the proximity of Palace defender Marc Guehi, who was within one meter of Chelsea's wall when the free-kick was taken. This rule, in effect since 2019, is seldom enforced but ultimately cost Palace, who squandered additional opportunities through striker Jean-Philippe Mateta and Maxence Lacroix, despite being the stronger side in the opening stages.

Before the match, Chelsea celebrated their triumph as world champions over the summer, but their first-half performance was lackluster. The best chances for Chelsea came in the second half from substitute debutants Estevao Willian, Liam Delap, and Andrey Santos.

It was only 35 days since Chelsea secured the Club World Cup title against Paris Saint-Germain in New Jersey, which left them with just a 13-day pre-season preparation period.

On Sunday, five players made their league debuts for Chelsea: Estevao, Delap, Santos, Joao Pedro, and Jamie Gittens, following a busy summer of transfers at Stamford Bridge.

In contrast, Crystal Palace began their pre-season campaign a day before Chelsea's 2024-25 season had even concluded. The next two weeks of the transfer window could prove critical for the Eagles, as two of their key players are rumored to be leaving the club.

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