Pro Ref admits error in awarding Haaland's goal against Manchester United

Pro Ref has acknowledged an error in the decision-making process that led to Manchester City's winning goal against Manchester United in their recent match. The refereeing body stated that it contacted Manchester United to inform them of an 'error of judgment' regarding the VAR review of Erling Haaland's goal, which was initially ruled offside before being overturned.

The VAR officials determined that Haaland was onside due to Manchester United defender Patrick Dorgu's position. However, Enzo Fernandez of Manchester City was in an offside position as he moved to play the ball, which should have influenced the decision. Despite not touching the ball, Fernandez's actions appeared to affect United's Lisandro Martinez, leading to confusion over the legality of the goal.

A spokesperson for Pro Ref explained that the VAR failed to recommend an on-field review, despite the subjective nature of the offside rule. The statement confirmed that the on-field decision was initially offside, but VAR overturned it without fully considering the impact of Fernandez's position on the play. Pro Ref plans to conduct a review of the incident.

Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville had anticipated this admission from Pro Ref, arguing that the officials overlooked the rules regarding interference in play. He expressed disbelief over the Match Centre's explanation, suggesting that the decision-making process was flawed. Other commentators, including Micah Richards and Roy Keane, also voiced their concerns about the officiating and the implications of the decision on the match outcome.

via Sky Sports