Chelsea held by Palace in opening day

A look at key moments from the match officials during Chelsea opening day draw with Crystal Palace

Controversial Eze goal and Estevao foul define tense Chelsea draw

Chelsea were held 0-0 by Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge on the opening day of the 2025/26 Premier League season. Palace defended with a tight three-man block, leaving Chelsea with little space to play. The biggest talking point was a penalty shout for Enzo Fernandez after being pushed by Ismaila Sarr, but referee Darren England did not review the incident.

Another key moment came when Eberechi Eze had a goal ruled out after Guehi moved too close to the Chelsea wall during the free kick. The decision followed a check that confirmed the wall rule requires space between players and the ball. Later, Estevao Willian earned a yellow card for a late foul on a Palace counter, while Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez survived a scare over a punch that did not lead to a red card.

Opening day games hinge on small refereeing decisions. This match shows how the wall rule and contact are interpreted in real time and how VAR can decide to stay on the bench.

For Maresca, the draw highlights the challenge of breaking down a disciplined Palace. For Glasner, Palace’s approach reinforces the team’s growing reputation for beating big teams on opening day.

Highlights

The season has just begun and the debate around decisions will continue.