Allowing Erling Haaland's match-winning Manchester derby goal was a MISTAKE, admits referees' body, after Michael Carrick's side fumed over baffling decision
Haaland scored a record ninth Premier League goal in the Manchester derby to give 10-man City victory following Phil Foden’s sending-off in the 23rd minute for kicking out at Bruno Fernandes.
WAF Context
Erling Haaland's match-winning goal in the Manchester derby has been acknowledged as an error by the referees' body. The goal was initially disallowed by referee Michael Oliver but overturned following a VAR review by Matt Donohue, despite Enzo Fernandez appearing to be in an offside position. Manchester United manager Michael Carrick expressed confusion over the decision. Haaland's goal came after Phil Foden's 23rd-minute sending-off for kicking out at Bruno Fernandes.
What we know
- Haaland's goal was initially disallowed before VAR overturned the decision.
- Enzo Fernandez appeared to interfere in an offside position when the goal was awarded.
- Phil Foden was sent off in the 23rd minute for kicking out at Fernandes.
Why it matters
The reversal highlights ongoing VAR decision-making concerns in high-profile fixtures. The goal's legitimacy directly affected the match outcome, with City winning despite playing with ten men, raising questions about consistency in applying offside interference protocols.
