Offside CHAOS! Why Erling Haaland's goal stood after VAR checked two Manchester City players against Manchester United
Manchester City's goal against Manchester United was upheld after a lengthy VAR review involving offside rules and player interference. The decision relied on semi-automated offside technology to determine that Erling Haaland was onside despite the presence of an offside teammate.
Why it matters
The incident underscores the complexities and controversies surrounding the application of VAR and semi-automated offside technology in high-stakes professional sports.
Manchester City took the lead in a frantic Manchester derby through Erling Haaland, but the opener was shrouded in controversy following a long VAR delay. While the Norwegian celebrated another landmark goal, Manchester United fans were left questioning the intricacies of the offside rule at Old Trafford.
The Manchester derby rarely lacks drama, and the latest instalment at Old Trafford delivered a massive talking point early on when Haaland found the back of the net. The Norwegian marksman tucked in a deflected cross from Josko Gvardiol, but the celebrations were immediately cut short by the assistant referee’s flag.
However, after a prolonged and confusing wait, VAR official Matt Donohue overturned the on-field decision, confirming the goal and sparking fury among the home support.
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