Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou was visibly frustrated on the touchline.
Image credit: Squawka
The highly anticipated London derby between Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge saw VAR intervene twice, ruling out goals for both teams.
Tottenham’s hopes of leveling the match were dashed when Pape Sarr’s equalizer was overturned following a controversial decision.
VAR Drama at Stamford Bridge
Earlier in the game, Chelsea thought they had extended their lead through Moises Caicedo’s stunning volley.
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However, VAR deemed Levi Colwill offside in the build-up, leading to the goal being disallowed.
The decision appeared to provide Tottenham with renewed energy as they pushed for an equalizer.
Their efforts seemed to pay off when Sarr struck from distance, sending the Spurs fans into celebration. However, the joy was short-lived as VAR signaled a review for a potential foul.
🚨⚠️ Ange Postecoglou on Sarr’s goal disallowed: “It's killing the game, mate. It's not the same game as it used to be”.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 3, 2025
“The referee gave it and then needed six minutes to rule the goal out. It's crazy mate. It's madness”. pic.twitter.com/jNYTaXs3fF
After a lengthy deliberation, referee Craig Pawson was sent to the pitchside monitor and ultimately ruled that Sarr had fouled Caicedo in the build-up.
The goal was disallowed, and Sarr was booked for the challenge.
Postecoglou’s Reaction
Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou was visibly frustrated on the touchline. As the review unfolded, he stood with his arms spread wide, then clutched his head in disbelief.
When the final decision was made, the Australian manager shook his head and gestured towards the referee in apparent disapproval.
The Premier League Match Centre explained the ruling, stating:
“VAR checked the referee’s call of goal for Tottenham and deemed there was a foul by Sarr on Caicedo in the build-up. The referee then overturned the original decision and the goal was disallowed.”
Postecoglou’s Stance on VAR
Postecoglou has been vocal in his criticism of VAR, having previously expressed concerns about how it is altering the game.
In January, he stated: “I’m surprised at how quickly the game is changing due to VAR. We never used to debate offsides, handballs, or holding in the box as much as we do now. Technology should enhance the game, not create more confusion.”
His concerns resurfaced after the latest decision against his team, reinforcing his belief that VAR is making football less predictable and enjoyable.
Conclusion
The controversy at Stamford Bridge has once again ignited the debate over VAR’s impact on football.
