Introduction: The Reason why Eberechi Eze’s free kick was disallowed
Football is all about moments of magic, but also moments of drama. One of those drama moments was when Eberechi Eze had just scored a magical free kick, only for it to be disallowed. Fans were angry and confused. They were wondering why such a magical goal was not awarded. The decision was hotly debated by fans, pundits, and even players on the field
Eberechi Eze's freekick was ruled out ❌
“After review, away number six is less than one metre away from the wall as the shot is taken. Therefore, it's an indirect free kick and a disallowed goal” pic.twitter.com/miZXoevPyw
— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) August 17, 2025
The Free Kick Opportunity for Eberechi Eze
Eberechi Eze put the ball in with ease. He has never let us down at set-piece chances as long as anyone can remember. When he struck the ball, it flew over the wall and into the net. The fans were going furious, celebrating what seemed like a special goal. The referee was able to get to it in time, however, as he blew his whistle to signal that the goal was off.
The Referee’s Ruling
The offside score was because of the event before the free kick. There was one of Eze’s teammates who stood in an offside position and interrupted the play by the referee. Even though the ball went straight into the net, the player’s presence distracted the goalkeeper. This was sufficient in accordance with law for the referee to nullify the goal.
VAR Involvement
VAR is applied in this scenario in contemporary football. The officials carefully examined the event. They reviewed whether the offside player was blocking the goalkeeper’s line of sight or trying to touch the ball. The decision was made after checking through VAR. The goal would be disallowed even with a clear and fair hit.
CONTROVERSY IN ENGLAND
The Premier League explains why Eberechi Eze’s goal was disallowed.
An infringement on the wall by Marc Guehi makes it an indirect free kick.
Chelsea escape!
Do you agree with the explanation? pic.twitter.com/mP9YjhmXN2
— Sports Radio Brila FM (@Brilafm889) August 17, 2025
Fans’ Reaction
Fans of Eze’s team were furious. They believed the call was callous. There were quite a few who argued that the offside player never touched the ball and should not have played any role. The internet also saw arguments arise, with the free kick being posted all over the internet. Fans of other neutrals teams were surprised at the shot but wondered if the rules are too stringent in the given scenario.
Pundits’ View
Pundits also were part of the game. Some apologized to the referee, stating that the offside interference rules are crystal clear. If a player is equal with the goalkeeper without even reaching the ball, it influences the game. Others believed the call deprived the fans of an incredible goal. They were advocating for fewer technical interpretations of the rules.
Influence on the Game
Offside goal altered the mood of the game. Instead of basking in praise for a work of brilliance, the team had to begin anew in very short order. It also boosted the confidence of the visiting team, who were also relieved. These small switches have a tendency to disrupt games’ rhythm, and it wasn’t an exception.
Rules and Grey Areas
The event again highlighted the manner in which football rules contribute to misinterpretation. The offside rule is one used so that the game shall be fair but is still the source of controversy. In this case, everybody was sure that the goalkeeper was not necessarily obstructed but was solely prohibited by the rules. This has also stimulated controversy concerning whether there is too much discretion left to referees in applying judgment when it concerns intent as opposed to position.
What It Means for Eberechi Eze
For Eberechi Eze, the encounter was sweet and sour. The accuracy on the free kick showed his class, but the disallowance robbed him of the glory. Yet, it is part of his growing reputation as one of the best set-piece specialists in the league. Although the goal did not materialize, the finish did not escape observation.
Author’s Opinion
Personally, the goal should still have been. Football is a moment-of-the-game sport, and Eze gave sports fans one to cherish. Even with the rules applied strictly, the offside player didn’t seem to bother the keeper enough to deny the shot. Sometimes the spirit of the game needs to be allowed to override strict application of the rules. This decision brought out the call for a bit more sense and common sense when officiating.