Noni Madueke’s fury was palpable as he was dragged away from referee Craig Pawson after Chelsea’s 2-2 draw with Aston Villa. The winger had thought he’d secured a 96th-minute winner, but the goal was disallowed after a lengthy VAR check, leaving Madueke and his teammates stunned.
Source: Reuters
The drama unfolded when Axel Disasi headed home in the 96th minute, only for Pawson to consult the pitch-side monitor and rule out the goal. Madueke stormed over to Pawson, shouting in his face before being restrained by Chelsea coach Jesus Perez. The 22-year-old was still fuming as he was awarded a yellow card, with teammate Benoit Badiashile also heard protesting the decision.
Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino was equally unimpressed, slamming VAR as “damaging English football” after the match. “It’s painful, it’s ridiculous,” Pochettino said. “The referee is unbelievable… it’s difficult to accept.”
Despite the controversy, Chelsea showed remarkable spirit to come back from 2-0 down at halftime. Madueke and Conor Gallagher scored in the second half to level the match, setting up the dramatic finale.
Aston Villa will feel they got away with one, but the draw keeps them on track for a Champions League spot. Chelsea, meanwhile, still have a chance to qualify for Europe if they can finish the season strongly.