Chelsea have learned why they were denied a penalty during their clash against Real Betis in the UEFA Conference League final. Shortly after the break, the Blues appealed for a spot-kick, which resulted in Benoit Badiashile picking up a caution for his protests.
As Nicolas Jackson went to latch onto a cross from Noni Madueke, he collided with Adrian. The Chelsea striker fell to the ground in a heap, holding his head, while the Real Betis goalkeeper quickly climbed to his feet.
As the referee, Irfan Peljto, called medical staff onto the pitch, the west Londoners pleaded for a penalty. The Video Assistant Referee, Jérôme Brisard, reviewed the incident as Jackson received attention, and he adjudged there to be no foul.
Speaking from the Gantry at WrocÅ‚aw Stadium on TNT Sports, co-commentator Lucy Ward said: “It’s a strong challenge – both players completely committed to going for the ball. Initially, (it) was good play from down the left-hand side from Madueke.
“A great ball in from Madueke and you can see Jackson comes in, only eyes on the ball. The goalkeeper is allowed to come for it, tries to get something on it and takes both of them out, his own defender and Jackson.”
Adam Summerton, the commentator, added: “The information on the screen in front of us on the gantry is that a potential penalty check is ongoing. Now that check is complete, and there is no penalty.”
Speaking to reporters ahead of the clash, Enzo Maresca was quizzed on Jackson’s mood, having missed Chelsea’s 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest on the final day of the Premier League season due to suspension.
“I think Nico is in debt with his teammates,” said the Blues boss. “And the reason why is because in that moment, Newcastle away was for us the most important game. He left his teammates with ten players for one hour.
“So for sure, he’s in debt. For sure, he’s a good guy. For sure, he recognised the mistake. He apologised to his teammates. That is very important. And I’m sure that tomorrow he’s going to do a very good game for us.”
On the impact of winning a trophy, Maresca said: “I think it’s important for everyone. You can see the other day how happy they were, also celebrating on the pitch.
“It’s something normal, when you arrive, you are new, two, three years here, you invest money and finally you can reach something important. I think it’s also something good for them, for everyone.
“Hopefully tomorrow we can continue to win, them, the fans, the club in general, and other trophies…”
This is a developing news story that will be updated with relevant information as we get it. More to follow…
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