March 08, (THEWILL) – Jude Bellingham has criticised the referee’s decision to allow Chelsea retake a missed penalty that ultimately sent the English club to the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals instead of Borussia Dortmund.
The controversial decision was made after the VAR spotted a Dortmund player encroaching into the box. Bellingham expressed his dissatisfaction with the handball decision that led to the penalty and even more so with the decision to allow it to be retaken.
The 19-year-old said: “From where I was it looked like he was pretty close and I’m not sure what more he can do with his hands. It’s a yard or two away, but I don’t want to get in trouble. That in itself was disappointing and the fact they have had a retake is a joke.”
Despite Dortmund’s disappointment, the team’s Manager, Edin Terzic, did not offer many complaints and accepted the tight call as a harsh decision. Chelsea’s win, however, was a significant one for the team, as they have struggled in the English Premier League this season, losing their chance for a top-four place.
Fortunately, back-to-back wins this week have given under-pressure Manager Graham Potter, a boost, who expressed his delight for the team and how the competition means a lot to them. Chelsea’s next challenge will be Leicester in the EPL on Saturday, while Dortmund are away to Schalke 04 in the Bundesliga.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
