• Sunday, 31 August 2025

"Waliangukia": Chelsea Benefit From VAR Controversy to Beat Stubborn Fulham

Chelsea took advantage of VAR controversy to beat Fulham 2-0 as the visitors were left to rue a series of costly decisions awarded against them at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

 

Enzo Maresca's side were fortunate not to fall behind in the west London derby when Fulham were harshly denied a first-half opener.

 

Josh King's strike was ruled out after VAR deemed Rodrigo Muniz's accidental collision with Trevoh Chalobah was worthy of a foul.

 

As if that wasn't infuriating enough for Fulham boss Marco Silva, Joao Pedro put Chelsea ahead beyond the scheduled eight minutes of stoppage time at the end of the first half. 

Adding to Silva's anger, Chelsea's second goal was also VAR-influenced as Ryan Sessegnon was adjudged to have handled a cross, leading to Enzo Fernandez converting from the penalty spot.

 

After drawing with Crystal Palace and routing West Ham 5-1, Chelsea's third successive Premier League clash with a London rival extended their unbeaten start to three games.

 

Alejandro Garnacho watched from the stands at Stamford Bridge after the Argentine winger travelled to Chelsea's training ground on Friday to finalise his move from Manchester United.

 

Garnacho's impending arrival comes with Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson set for a loan switch to Bayern Munich, while Christopher Nkunku signed for AC Milan on Saturday. 

 

Liam Delap, leading Chelsea's overhauled attack, lasted less than 15 minutes before he was forced off after appearing to pull his hamstring while chasing a long pass.

 

Read Also: Mikel Arteta Concerned By Saka's Injuries After Latest Hamstring Blow

 

The striker's exit was another blow for Maresca after Blues forward Cole Palmer was sidelined by a groin injury that will keep him out of England's forthcoming World Cup qualifiers.

 

King thought he had broken the deadlock with his first professional goal in the 21st minute.

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