Jordan Pickford, the goalkeeper for Everton, was fortunate to avoid serious injury following a high-risk challenge by Brentford’s Christian Norgaard. The incident took place just before halftime at Goodison Park, when Norgaard’s tackle saw his studs make contact with Pickford’s right leg. Although the initial decision from the referee didn’t result in a red card, a VAR review led to Norgaard’s dismissal for the dangerous tackle. While it seemed unintentional, the force and nature of the challenge warranted a red card, as it posed a serious risk to the goalkeeper’s safety.
On social media, many fans expressed disbelief at how Pickford escaped unscathed, with one remarking, “It’s a miracle Pickford didn’t break his leg!” Another fan added, “That could’ve easily ended with a broken leg.” Several others noted that Norgaard’s actions endangered Pickford, with one writing, “It’s excessive force and endangers the player’s safety — a clear red.”
Meanwhile, earlier in the day, a similarly dangerous tackle occurred in Chelsea’s 2-1 win over Leicester City, when Wilfred Ndidi caught Cole Palmer on the ankle. Despite the severity of the challenge, Ndidi only received a yellow card, sparking debate over the consistency of refereeing decisions.
