Referees body admits error of judgement over Erling Haaland derby winner – BBC Sport
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Refereeing body admits judgement error over Haaland derby winner
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Figure caption:
Haaland scores controversial winner as Man City win derby despite Foden red
By Jess Anderson
BBC Sport journalist
Published 13 September 2026, 17:31 BST
Updated 1 minute ago
The Premier League refereeing body Pro Ref has admitted an error of judgement in awarding Erling Haaland’s decisive goal for Manchester City against rivals Manchester United.
As City celebrated a remarkable derby victory, there were questions over the validity of Haaland’s winner. The striker scored in the 60th minute at Old Trafford, turning home a cross from Josko Gvardiol before it was ruled out for offside on the field.
Following a VAR check, the goal was awarded after Haaland was judged to have been played onside by Patrick Dorgu’s boot.
However, Pro Ref acknowledged in a statement: "It was established that Enzo Fernandez did not play the ball and therefore that makes any offside offence subjective."
They added they had "contacted Manchester United this evening to acknowledge what we deem is an error of judgement. A review of the incident will take place."
United defender Lisandro Martinez described the decision as "injustice", while manager Michael Carrick expressed his "confusion".
The goal arrived after City were reduced to 10 men in the first half when Phil Foden was sent off for kicking out at United captain Bruno Fernandes.
