Chelsea’s players found themselves in a heated confrontation with referee Craig Pawson at the final whistle after Axel Disasi’s late goal was disallowed against Aston Villa.
Despite trailing 2-0 in the first half, Mauricio Pochettino’s team believed they had staged a remarkable comeback with Disasi’s apparent header in the dying moments, only to see it chalked off.
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Pawson initially allowed the goal, but after a VAR review recommended by the on-field officials, he overturned his decision, judging that Benoit Badiashile had fouled Villa’s Diego Carlos in the buildup.
Pochettino and his players were incensed by the decision, with Disasi and Noni Madueke among those confronting Pawson and his assistants at full-time.
Madueke, who ignited the comeback with a superb finish after the break, sought clarification from the referee, but Disasi intervened, pushing him away with his arm. Badiashile joined his former Monaco teammate in protesting, leading to a tense confrontation between the Chelsea contingent and the officials.
Assistant coach Jesus Perez intervened, separating players and officials as emotions ran high on the pitch. Goalkeeping coach Miguel D’Agostino also stepped in to calm the situation, as tensions escalated.
Cole Palmer attempted to engage with Pawson, but Perez intervened to prevent further escalation. However, Palmer expressed his frustration at being removed from the discussion, leading to a brief confrontation with Perez.
Eventually, Pochettino took charge, addressing Pawson directly while his team gathered around. Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher also voiced his discontent, seeking answers from the referee amid the chaotic scene.
In the aftermath, tempers flared, highlighting the intensity of the situation as both teams reacted to the controversial decision.
After the game Pochettino vented his frustration at the process that led to the goal being ruled out. “The referee didn’t see the action,” he said. “But then the VAR changed the decision. If the referee is saying he was fouled and then goes to check and sticks with the decision, okay no problem. But he didn’t say it was a foul.
“It was a challenge that happens so many times in football. In this moment, for us, it was massive for the three points, to have success and get into European competition for next season.”
