Mauricio Pochettino criticizes VAR for tarnishing the reputation of English football following Chelsea’s disallowed goal against Aston Villa | Football News

Chelsea Denied Stoppage-Time Comeback Win at Aston Villa by VAR

In a dramatic turn of events, Chelsea was denied a stoppage-time comeback win at Aston Villa due to a controversial VAR decision. Mauricio Pochettino, the Chelsea manager, expressed his frustration with the use of VAR, claiming it is damaging the image of English football.

The match seemed to be heading towards a thrilling conclusion when Axel Disasi’s header in added time appeared to overturn Chelsea’s 2-0 deficit. However, the goal was ruled out after Benoit Badiashile was deemed to have fouled Diego Carlos in the build-up.

Pochettino criticized the decision, stating that it was difficult to accept and that it has damaged English football. He highlighted previous instances where VAR decisions had gone against his team and questioned the consistency of the officiating.

Despite the disappointment of the disallowed goal, Chelsea put in a spirited performance to claw their way back from a two-goal deficit. Noni Madueke and Conor Gallagher scored to level the game before the late drama unfolded.

Villa, who were looking to extend their lead over Tottenham in the race for European qualification, will feel fortunate to escape with a point. Pochettino, on the other hand, was pleased with his team’s performance and remains optimistic about their chances of qualifying for Europe.

The controversial VAR decision will undoubtedly be a talking point in the coming days as Chelsea and Villa look ahead to their next fixtures. Villa will face Olympiakos in the Conference League semi-final, while Chelsea will take on Tottenham in a crucial Premier League clash.