April 28, (THEWILL) – Mauricio Pochettino, Chelsea’s manager, has voiced strong criticism towards the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system, claiming it has caused significant harm to the Premier League. This statement followed a controversial late goal disallowed during Chelsea’s dramatic 2-2 draw against Aston Villa on Saturday, at Villa Park.
Chelsea found themselves trailing after an early own goal from Marc Cucurella and a strike from Morgan Rogers before half-time. However, the Blues fought valiantly to equalise through goals from Noni Madueke and Conor Gallagher, displaying a spirit absent during their recent 5-0 thrashing at Arsenal.
Deep into stoppage time, Chelsea thought they had taken all three points when Villa goalkeeper Robin Olsen turned Axel Disasi’s effort into his own net, but the goal was disallowed due to a perceived foul by Benoit Badiashile, sparking Pochettino’s fury. He did not mince words, labelling the referee’s decision as “unbelievable and ridiculous” and asserting that VAR has “damaged English football.”
Pochettino argued that the challenge was a normal one and that the goal should have stood, claiming that even Villa’s players and fans failed to comprehend the disallowed goal’s rationale. Yet, the draw can affect Aston Villa’s hopes of a top-four finish and subsequent Champions League qualification, as they now hold a seven-point lead over fifth-placed Tottenham.
Spurs have three games in hand, including Sunday’s highly anticipated North London derby against EPL leaders Arsenal. A Tottenham victory could reignite the race for the coveted final UCL slot.
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.
