Sport

Pro Ref Admits Mistake in Awarding Haaland’s Derby Winner

AI SUMMARY

Pro Ref admitted that Erling Haaland’s winning goal for Manchester City against Manchester United should not have been allowed due to a VAR error.

Pro Ref acknowledged an error of judgement in awarding Erling Haaland's 60th-minute winner in the Manchester derby at Old Trafford.
The elite officiating body contacted Manchester United and confirmed a review of the incident will take place.
The goal was initially ruled offside on the field before VAR intervened and determined Enzo Fernández was not interfering with play.
Pro Ref stated that VAR did not recognise the likely impact of Fernández's position and should have recommended an on-field review.
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick expressed strong criticism over the interpretation of the offside and interfering rules.
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca defended the decision, stating that Fernández was not interfering with play.
Phil Foden received a 23rd-minute red card for kicking Bruno Fernandes, though Maresca argued Fernandes should have also been sent off.
Manchester City sit second in the standings with 12 points, while Manchester United are 13th with four points.
United supporters staged a pre-game protest against recent ticket tout bans, hanging a critical banner inside the stadium.