Man City’s Goal Was VAR ‘Error’, Referees Admit

Erling Haaland’s winning goal was initially deemed offside on the pitch before VAR overruled the decision.

Refereeing body Pro Ref has admitted an error after VAR awarded Manchester City their winning goal during Sunday’s Manchester derby.

Erling Haaland’s goal – which handed Man City a 1-0 victory – was initially deemed offside on the pitch before VAR overruled the decision.

Enzo Fernandez was in an offside position as he attempted to play the ball before Haaland scored.

He appeared to impact the defending of Man Utd’s Lisandro Martinez by attempting a diving header, despite not touching the ball.

Pro Ref spokesperson has since made an unusual intervention and confirmed that a review of the goal will take place.

It said in a statement: “It was established that Enzo Fernandez did not play the ball and therefore that makes any offside offence subjective, however, on this occasion, the VAR did not recognise the likely impact of his position and should have recommended an on-field review.

“Contact has been made with Manchester United this evening to acknowledge what we deem is an error of judgement. A review of the incident will take place.”