Chelsea wins controversial Champions League match

Enzo Fernandez's decision to deny the goal became the focus of attention in Chelsea's 1-0 victory over Pafos at Stamford Bridge in the 7th round of the Champions League group stage.

Moises Caicedo's only goal in the 78th minute helped Chelsea win all 3 important points, temporarily entering the top 8 leading teams before the final match against Napoli.

This is also The Blues' second consecutive victory, after defeating Brentford 2-0 in the Premier League last weekend, and also the third victory in the first 4 matches under coach Liam Rosenior.

However, a controversial turning point appeared right in the 17th minute. Enzo Fernandez headed the ball into Pafos' net after Pedro Neto's cross, but referee Erik Lambrechts immediately blew the whistle, determining that the Argentine midfielder had an impact from behind on the opponent's defender. Although the collision situation was considered quite light and unclear, the goal was still not recognized.

Former leader of the Premier League referee organization, Mr. Keith Hackett, said that the difference in the application of the law between UEFA and the Premier League is the cause of controversy.

Although the impact was not strong, it was still a push and the referee applied the rules correctly. In the Premier League, collisions that are even clearer are often overlooked" - Hackett commented.

After this decision, Fernandez clearly expressed his frustration, even pointed to the referee and was lucky not to receive a card. On the field, Chelsea continued to press for most of the remaining time but had to wait until the end of the match to find the decisive goal.

Despite winning all 3 points, the Stamford Bridge team still has reason to regret it. With 7 teams owning 13 points, the goal difference is likely to play a key role in the race to win tickets to the top 8.