‘Something Feels Off’ – Keith Hackett Blasts VAR Mistake in Crystal Palace’s 2-1 Win Over Liverpool

Former referee and ex-PGMOL chief Keith Hackett has weighed in on the controversy surrounding Liverpool’s equalising goal against Crystal Palace.

In their sixth Premier League match of the season, defending champions Liverpool travelled to Selhurst Park to face a Crystal Palace side thriving under Oliver Glasner. The Eagles came into the clash on an impressive 17-game unbeaten run, which included their Community Shield triumph over Liverpool in August.

Although Palace eventually secured a dramatic win, Liverpool appeared to have salvaged a point late on when Federico Chiesa struck a stunning equaliser. However, substitute Eddie Nketiah netted in the 97th minute to seal a memorable victory for Palace, making them the only remaining unbeaten team in the Premier League.

While most of the post-match discussion has focused on Nketiah’s last-gasp winner or Liverpool’s underwhelming performance, Hackett highlighted a key moment involving Liverpool’s goal.

‘Clear and Obvious Handball’

The VAR reviewed Chiesa’s goal after it appeared Mohamed Salah’s arm may have touched the ball during the build-up. Salah had leapt to meet a cross, and the ball seemed to make contact with his outstretched arm.

Hackett criticised both the on-field officials and VAR for failing to disallow the goal, saying:

> “It’s difficult to understand. On the video replay, Salah clearly handles the ball. He extends his arm, making himself bigger, and the ball makes contact. The referee misses it initially, and then VAR reviews it but still doesn’t make the correct decision.

This is handball — simple as that. There’s either a communication issue or a technical problem because the video evidence is clear and obvious. The goal should have been ruled out, full stop.”

Had the match ended in a draw, Hackett believes Palace would have been unjustly denied a result, especially given their dominant display.

For Arne Slot and his Liverpool side, the defeat ends their perfect start to the league campaign. The focus will now be on bouncing back quickly, but their performance at Selhurst Park raises questions about their consistency and resilience this season.