Pro Ref admits VAR error over Haaland’s Manchester derby winner

Professional Game Referees has admitted an “error of judgment” in awarding Erling Haaland’s winning goal as Manchester City beat Manchester United 1–0 at Old Trafford.

Haaland’s goal was initially disallowed for offside before VAR overturned the decision, finding the Manchester City striker onside. Pro Ref said, however, that teammate Enzo Fernandez was in an offside position and that the goal should have remained disallowed.

The refereeing body said VAR failed to recognise the “likely impact” of Fernandez’s position. It said officials should instead have recommended an on-field review, leaving the referee to make the subjective decision on whether Fernandez interfered with play.

Sky Sports reported that the review appeared to focus on whether Fernandez touched the ball. Under the offside rules, interference with an opponent can also determine an offence, even when the player does not make contact with the ball.

Replays were interpreted by Sky Sports as showing Fernandez’s position affected the Manchester United goalkeeper’s reaction. The VAR review delayed the restart by almost four minutes, while five minutes were added at the end of the match; the source said it remained unanswered whether the delay was overlooked in calculating stoppage time.

Pro Ref reported the incident to Manchester United and said it would be reviewed. The Premier League is using semi-automated offside technology this season.