Poor Chelsea saved by VAR in disappointing draw against Palace

Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea delivered a below-par display against Crystal Palace, settling for a goalless draw in their Premier League season opener.

Full-time at SB. ⏹️#CFC | #CHECRY pic.twitter.com/hvaIrhgJVB

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 17, 2025

The Blues fielded some new faces, including Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, who was lively down the left flank, but there was very little inspiration in attack.

Palace started on the front foot, and star player Eberechi Eze rifled a free kick into the far corner, but it was ruled out after a VAR check determined a foul by Marc Guehi in the build-up.

Chelsea huffed and puffed, but Palace remained dangerous on the counter, and Jean-Phillipe Mateta should have done better after he was found expertly by Adam Wharton.

Summer signing Estevao entered the fray looking to make a difference ahead of the hour mark, and he instantly injected some life into the Blues’ attack. However, the hosts struggled to carve out clear-cut chances, with the game remaining firmly in the balance heading into the final stages.

Substitutes Liam Delap and Andrey Santos threatened late on, but ultimately the FIFA Club World Cup champions were unable to breach a resolute Eagles rearguard, meaning they were forced to settle for a point to kick off their campaign.