Information reaching Softfootball indicates that some Aston Villa fans have raised concerns about the second goal scored by João Pedro during Chelsea’s 4–1 victory. The goal, scored in the 45+6 minute of the first half, has sparked debate online over whether it should have been ruled offside.
Softfootball analysed the viral image circulating on social media that appears to show two moments of the attacking move. One frame suggests João Pedro was in an offside position, while another frame the one used by VAR shows him in an onside position.
According to the laws of the game, offside decisions are determined at the exact moment the ball is played by the passing player, not when the receiving player is already moving into position. In this case, the pass was made by Enzo Fernández.
In the frame where João Pedro appears offside, Fernández had not yet attempted the pass. However, the frame used by VAR shows the exact moment Fernández struck the ball to make the assist. At that moment, João Pedro was judged to be in an onside position.
For this reason, it is difficult to conclude that VAR made an incorrect call to favour Chelsea. Softfootball also believes that Chelsea have not necessarily benefited from favourable officiating decisions this season.
As of Tuesday, March 3, 2026, Chelsea had accumulated ten red cards during the 2025/26 Premier League campaign, nine issued to players and one to the manager highlighting the disciplinary challenges the team has faced.
Villa supporters’ frustration may also be linked to an earlier moment in the match when a goal by Ollie Watkins in the 41st minute was ruled out for offside after a VAR review.
Despite the controversy, Chelsea went on to dominate the match at Villa Park, eventually securing a convincing 4–1 victory.
The result significantly strengthens Chelsea’s push for a top-four finish. The London club now sits close to the teams above them in the table, with both Manchester United and Aston Villa only a few points ahead as the race for Champions League qualification intensifies.
