The Ecuadorian midfielder went into a 50-50 challenge with Pape Matar Sarr and was late, seemingly catching the Spurs player high on his shin with his studs. ..Continue Reading
The Premier League’s match centre account on X provided an explanation as to why the 23-year-old was not sent off.
It read: “VAR checked for a potential red card following a challenge by Caicedo on Sarr and confirmed the referee’s call of no serious foul play.”
Consequently, the quick review concluded with no additional punishment for Caicedo, which left Carragher bewildered and visibly incredulous.
After watching the replay, Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher firmly believed that the £115 million player deserved to be sent off, even though referee Anthony Taylor allowed play to continue.
“What? Am I missing something there?” the Liverpool icon said, before Drury explained that VAR adjudged the challenge “lacked excessive force.”
Carragher then replied: “I mean that is unbelievable. I don’t like seeing people sent off, but I was certain that was going to be a red card. They’ve got away with a huge one there Chelsea.”
The match saw more drama unfold when Dejan Kulusevski struck Romeo Lavia with a stray arm during a challenge, leaving the 20-year-old on the ground. However, after a quick VAR review, the game continued.
These incidents were just part of an intense and action-packed 45 minutes in north London, with the capital derby delivering yet another heated encounter.
Marc Cucurella’s two early errors within the first 10 minutes proved costly as Dominic Solanke netted against his former club, followed by Kulusevski doubling the lead.
Enzo Maresca’s team responded through Jadon Sancho, who scored with a solo run and a finish from 20 yards out. Cole Palmer had two prime chances to level the score but missed, leaving Spurs ahead 2-1 at halftime.
