A controversial moment overshadowed Chelsea’s match after goalkeeper Robert Sánchez appeared to handle the ball outside his penalty area, only for the incident to be waved away in remarkable fashion by the referee.
Midway through the game, Sánchez rushed out of his box to deal with a loose ball but seemed to lose his footing as his momentum carried him beyond the 18-yard line while still in possession. Replays suggested the Chelsea goalkeeper was holding the ball just outside the penalty area — an offence that would normally result in a free kick and potential disciplinary action.
Instead, the referee opted not to stop play. What stunned players and fans alike was the official’s reaction: rather than consulting VAR or taking action, he was seen laughing as Sánchez rolled on the ground before quickly getting back to his feet.
Opposition players immediately appealed for a foul, surrounding the referee and pointing to the edge of the box, but their protests were dismissed. The lack of intervention from VAR further fueled frustration, with supporters questioning how such a clear-cut incident escaped review.
Football laws are explicit: a goalkeeper is only permitted to handle the ball within the penalty area. Any handling outside the box is considered a direct free-kick offence and can lead to a booking or even a red card if it denies a clear goalscoring opportunity.
The referee’s reaction has since sparked widespread debate, with fans and pundits describing the moment as unprofessional and emblematic of inconsistent officiating. Clips of the incident quickly went viral on social media, intensifying calls for greater accountability and transparency in refereeing decisions.
