VAR Controversy Overshadows Chelsea-Crystal Palace Deadlock

On August 17, 2025, Chelsea and Crystal Palace played out a goalless draw at Stamford Bridge, a match that offered more questions than answers for both clubs. The key moment of the game came in the 13th minute when Eberechi Eze looked to have given Palace an early lead with a powerful free-kick. However, the goal was disallowed after a VAR check, with Palace defender Marc Guehi deemed to be within one metre of Chelsea's wall when the free-kick was taken.

Crystal Palace created the better opportunities in the first half, with Jean-Philippe Mateta and Maxence Lacroix both testing Chelsea's defense. The visitors looked the more cohesive side in the opening 30 minutes, suggesting a squad that has had more time together, having started their pre-season schedule before Chelsea.

Chelsea, who were celebrating their Club World Cup triumph just 35 days ago, struggled to find their rhythm, with the starting line-up featuring several new signings making their league debuts. The performance was uneven, and it was the substitutes who offered Chelsea their clearest sights of goal in the second half, but a breakthrough never arrived.

The draw may fade from memory in time, but the wider context ensures it carried weight. Chelsea remain a team in transition, while Palace must brace themselves for a potentially disruptive end to the transfer window, with both Eze and Guehi attracting serious interest.