Premier League refs admit VAR ‘error’ on Haaland derby winner

Premier League Referees Apologize After VAR ‘Error’ Sparks Debate Over Haaland’s Derby Victory
Pro Ref, representing Premier League officials, has apologized to Manchester United after conceding that VAR erroneously credited Erling Haaland with the decisive goal in Manchester City’s 1‑0 triumph. Haaland scored the lone goal in the 60th minute at Old Trafford after receiving a deflected cross from Joska Gvardiol that placed the ball into the net. Although the assistant referee had raised an off‑side flag, vectors Matthew Donohue and Blake Antrobus reversed the ruling, concluding that City midfielder Enzo Fernández had left the pitch and was not interfering with play inside the penalty area. Manager Michael Carrick labelled the outcome “worrying,” while defender Lisandro Martínez termed it an “injustice.” Pro Ref has officially acknowledged the mistake, describing it as arguably the most consequential VAR misstep since its debut in 2019. In a statement, the association confirmed that the officiating decision was in error and that a thorough review would follow. “The on‑field decision was offside against Haaland—VAR verified his onside status,” explained the organization. “While Fernández did not touch the ball, the VAR should have prompted an on‑site review given his positioning, an assessment that was not met this time.”

Haaland secured the only goal in the 60th minute at Old Trafford after converting a deflected cross by Joska Gvardiol that reached him unobstructed in the box. Although assistant referee flags indicated a potential offside situation, vectors Matthew Donohue and Blake Antrobus overturned the ruling, determining that City midfielder Enzo Fernández had departed the playing surface and was not responsible for interference within the penalty area. Manchester United manager Michael Carrick described the result as worrisome, while defender Lisandro Martínez accused the call of being unjust. Pro Ref has formally accepted the judicial error and announced a dedicated review. “The on‑field decision was offside against Haaland—VAR confirmed his onside status,” the association stated. “During a related play, officials concluded that Fernández lacked involvement, yet the VAR failed to arrange a proper on‑field review. Contact has been made with Manchester United to acknowledge the judgement of error, and further scrutiny will proceed. ESPN has also reached out for United’s response. The victory sees Manchester City join Arsenal as the only teams commanding maximum points after four games, placing Manchester United thirteenth with a single win, one draw and two defeats.”

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