)
Was the Nigerian fortunate to avoid a straight red card against the Blues?
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has addressed Wilfred Ndidi’s tackle on Cole Palmer in the Blues’ 2-1 win over Leicester City at the King Power Stadium.
Leicester vs Chelsea
Nicolas Jackson gave Chelsea an early lead at the King Power Stadium with a skilful finish.
)
Despite sustained pressure, the West London club struggled to find a second goal for much of the match.
However, their persistence paid off when Marc Cucurella delivered an excellent cross for Nicolas Jackson. Leicester goalkeeper Mads Hermansen saved the striker’s header, but Enzo Fernandez was there to pounce on the rebound and double Chelsea's advantage.
Although Jordan Ayew converted a late penalty for Leicester in stoppage time, Maresca’s men held on for the victory.
Despite the victory, debate raged regarding the severity of Ndidi's reckless challenge on Palmer in minute 22.
What happened?
Referee Andy Madley issued a yellow card, and the tackle sparked a video review for a potential red card.
However, after consulting with VAR Paul Tierney, the decision was upheld, much to the relief of Ndidi and Leicester.
The VAR officials agreed with the on-field referee's assessment, allowing the Nigerian to remain in the game.
)
PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Football News from Pulse Sports.
What Maresca said about Ndidi’s tackle on Palmer
Speaking after the game, Maresca admitted he did not think Leicester should have been reduced to 10 men.
)
"I don't think so, to be honest," said Maresca. “I don't think the target is Cole. I said after the Man United game, when there is bad intention, it has to be a different punishment from the referee.
“I’m not saying Wilf had a bad intention because I love Wilf. It's not just our players. For me, it's general. Whenever there is bad intention, the punishment has to be different.”
What next for Chelsea?
Chelsea next face Bundesliga side Heidenheim in the Conference League on Thursday, November 28, before welcoming Aston Villa on Sunday, December 1, keen to record their seventh league success of 2024-25.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)