Premier League release statement after Moises Caicedo’s goal against Spurs was ruled out by VAR and fans are furious

Premier League Issues Statement Following Controversial VAR Decision to Disallow Caicedo’s Goal in Chelsea vs Tottenham Clash
The Premier League has released a statement addressing the highly controversial VAR decision that ruled out Moises Caicedo’s stunning goal during Chelsea’s heated Premier League clash with Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge. The dramatic incident, which sparked confusion and outrage among fans, unfolded after Caicedo appeared to double Chelsea’s lead with a brilliant volley from the edge of the box.
Chelsea, under the guidance of Enzo Maresca, looked to be in firm control when Caicedo latched onto a loose ball and rifled it into the net from around 15 yards out. The goal, which came at a critical moment in the match, sent Stamford Bridge into a frenzy. However, celebrations were abruptly cut short as the goal was sent to VAR for review—a process that took several minutes and left both players and supporters anxiously waiting for clarity.
Following the extended delay, the Premier League confirmed that the goal had been disallowed. VAR officials, after careful analysis, determined that Chelsea defender Levi Colwill had been in an offside position during the build-up. Colwill, along with several other players, was positioned across the 18-yard box, and VAR deemed his location to have impacted play, leading to the decision to rule the goal out.
In a statement posted on X (formerly known as Twitter), the Premier League’s Match Centre explained the call, saying: “VAR checked the referee’s call of goal – and established that Colwill was in an offside position in the build-up and recommended that the goal was disallowed.”
The decision has sparked intense debate across social media platforms, with many fans questioning the time it took to reach a conclusion and the clarity of the evidence used to overturn the goal. Reactions ranged from disbelief to frustration, with several users highlighting what they believe is a growing inconsistency in VAR rulings.
One fan commented: “Genuine question. If VAR is for clear and obvious errors then how come it took them four minutes to find the clear and obvious error in this?” Another questioned the basis of the call altogether, writing: “Not sure that one should’ve been disallowed to be honest.”
A third supporter lamented: “Game’s gone. There’s no way that’s offside,” while another emphasized the need for more precision in offside calls: “If you cannot 100% conclude it’s offside, then the goal should stand. Automated offside is the only way to solve this.”
Others expressed frustration at the technology itself, pointing out the flaws in the current system. “You literally can’t see anyone’s feet in that still image for the offside. So how can they even draw the lines for offside?” said one user. Another added: “This is in no way shape or form an exact science. It’s utterly pointless. VAR has honestly ruined football for me.”
The drama didn’t stop there. In a frenetic second half, referee Anthony Taylor and the VAR team, including Jarred Gillett and Mark Scholes, remained under the spotlight as yet another goal was ruled out—this time for Tottenham. Midfielder Pape Matar Sarr thought he had pulled one back for Spurs after finishing off a well-worked move. However, upon review, VAR found that Sarr had committed a foul on Caicedo in the lead-up to the goal.
The Premier League again issued a clarification: “VAR checked the referee’s call of goal for Tottenham – and deemed there was a foul by Sarr on Caicedo in the build-up and recommended an on-field review. The referee then overturned the original decision and the goal was disallowed, with Sarr then cautioned for a reckless challenge.”
The series of controversial decisions left both sets of fans fuming, reigniting the debate over the role and execution of VAR in top-flight football. With calls for reform and greater transparency growing louder, the Premier League now faces increased pressure to improve the consistency and efficiency of its officiating processes.
As the dust settles on yet another high-profile VAR controversy, one thing is certain—this debate is far from over.