Erling Haaland’s Controversial Derby Winner: Was It a VAR Error?
BBC Sport explores the debate surrounding Erling Haaland’s winning goal in the Manchester derby, raising questions about VAR’s decision-making process.
Was Haaland’s Winner a VAR Error?
Manchester City celebrated a remarkable victory over Manchester United, but the game was filled with controversy. The focus was on Erling Haaland’s winning goal, initially disallowed for offside, later overturned by VAR.
Haaland found the net in the 60th minute, turning home a cross from Josko Gvardiol. Initially, the goal was ruled out due to offside, but after a VAR check, the decision was overturned, with Haaland deemed to have been onside.
The Norwegian’s position was a subject of intense debate, as some questioned whether offside Enzo Fernandez was interfering with play. United defender Lisandro Martinez described the decision as an "injustice," while manager Michael Carrick expressed confusion.
The Goal’s Controversial Aspects
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Offside Rule: The initial offside call was made due to Haaland drifting beyond United’s defensive line. However, the VAR review showed Haaland onside, thanks to a deflection off Patrick Dorgu’s boot.
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Fernandez’s Role: The positioning and involvement of Fernandez were the key points of contention. He attempted a diving header but did not touch the ball. Despite being in an offside position, the VAR deemed him not to have played a part in the goal.
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Red Card Controversy: The game’s other significant moment was Phil Foden’s red card for kicking out at United captain Bruno Fernandes. The decision was made by referee Michael Oliver in the 23rd minute.
Analysis: A Clear VAR Mistake?
Dale Johnson, BBC Sport’s football issues correspondent, noted an intriguing aspect: the initial offside call was incorrect, and the goal should have been ruled out because Fernandez was offside, not Haaland.
He highlighted a crucial part of the offside law: a player is offside if they are "clearly attempting to play a ball which is in play, or its last touch has been made by a teammate." Fernandez’s dive, despite not touching the ball, could be seen as an attempt to influence the play, leading to the controversy.
