Pro Ref Admits Error in Upholding Haaland’s Winning Goal Decision

The Premier League refereeing body, Pro Ref, has admitted an error in confirming Erling Haaland’s winning goal during the Manchester derby. In the match at Old Trafford where Manchester City defeated Manchester United 1–0, Haaland’s goal in the 60th minute was initially disallowed for offside. According to Pro Ref, since Enzo Fernández did not touch the ball, the offside call was subjective, and the VAR should have advised for an on-field review.

Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez described the decision as unfair, while manager Michael Carrick expressed his confusion. Earlier in the game, at the 23rd minute, Phil Foden received a straight red card for kicking Bruno Fernandes, reducing Manchester City to 10 men. The match took place on 29 Bhadra in Kathmandu. Pro Ref acknowledged the mistake on Sunday night, stating the Premier League referees’ body considers the decision to validate Haaland’s goal as incorrect.

Initially, Haaland’s 60th-minute goal was ruled out due to offside, but it was later awarded after intervention by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR). The controversy centered on City’s Enzo Fernández, who was in an offside position yet appeared to attempt to play the ball. However, Pro Ref clarified that Fernández had not touched the ball, making the offside call subjective. They further noted that the VAR failed to recognize the possibility that Fernández’s position affected the play and should have recommended an on-field review. Pro Ref contacted Manchester United on Saturday evening, labeling the incident a ‘clear error’ and announced that a detailed review of the incident would be conducted.