Chelsea were pitted with a tough test against Ajax in the Champions League, but the game changed within an instant after a huge decision at Stamford Bridge
Kenneth Taylor of AFC Ajax challenges Facundo Buonanotte of Chelsea before being shown a red card after Referee Felix Zwayer (not pictured) refers to the VAR to review the tackle during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between Chelsea FC and AFC Ajax at Stamford Bridge on October 22, 2025 in London, England
A bad tackle changed the game at Stamford Bridge
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Image: 2025 Getty Images)
Ajax midfielder Kenneth Taylor has been sent off for a high tackle on midfielder Facundo Buananotte. On paper, the visit of the Amsterdam heavyweights was a tough assignment for Enzo Maresca's team.
But after a quiet 15 minutes, the game exploded into life when Taylor lunged in clumsily on Buananotte. After Ajax defender was beaten to the ball by Buananotte, his momentum and high foot saw him catch the Argentine high on his ankle with all of his studs.
Referee Felix Zwayer did not see the incident as a red card offence at first, initially giving a foul for the Blues. However, after only one glance at the VAR monitor, he went to his back pocket and brandished the red card.
Ajax boss Jonny Heitinga, who was Arne Slot's assistant manager at last season, looked shell-shocked when he saw the Dutchman walk off the pitch. It was the worst possible start for Heitinga's side.
Chelsea wasted no time in taking advantage of the extra man as Marc Guiu scored his first goal for the west Londoners one minute later.
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