Chelsea’s 3-0 victory over Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League group stage has stirred controversy, particularly surrounding the legitimacy of the opening goal.
The first goal came when Marc Cucurella delivered a sharp low cross, and Neto’s backheel deflected off Jules Kounde into Barcelona’s net. However, many fans raised concerns over a possible offside position. Broadcast footage appeared to show Cucurella in an offside position when receiving the ball. Yet, semi-automated offside technology confirmed that the Chelsea defender was onside, quelling immediate official objections.
Prior to this, Chelsea had two goals disallowed. In the 4th minute, Wesley Fofana’s close-range finish was canceled due to a handball during the build-up. In the 22nd minute, Enzo Fernandez’s header from an Estevao free-kick was ruled out for offside after Trevoh Chalobah was deemed to have interfered with play.
Despite the technology’s verdicts, social media erupted with fan debates: “How was Cucurella not offside?” one questioned, while another added, “Chelsea were robbed of a clear goal early on, it evens out.” One fan noted, “Every Chelsea first-half attack was offside. It should’ve been 0-0 at halftime.”
Adding to the drama, Lamine Yamal, Barcelona’s young sensation, had a notably quiet game. Neutralized completely by Cucurella, Yamal failed to pose any real threat. Chelsea fans in the stands mockingly chanted, “Yamal isn’t even on Estevao’s worst day level.”
In stark contrast, Estevao, Chelsea’s own teenage prodigy, had a sensational performance. The 2007-born winger scored Chelsea’s second goal, playing a crucial role in the team’s commanding victory.
At just 18 years and 215 days, Estevao made history as the third teenager ever to score in each of his first three Champions League appearances. He joins elite company alongside Kylian Mbappé (18 years, 113 days) and Erling Haaland (19 years, 107 days).
Sources: 24h
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