Ten-man Manchester City defeated Manchester United 1-0 in the Premier League derby at Old Trafford on Sunday, with Erling Haaland scoring the decisive goal that officials later admitted should have been disallowed.
Phil Foden was sent off in the 23rd minute for kicking out at United captain Bruno Fernandes. Despite the numerical disadvantage, City took the lead on the hour mark when Haaland finished from a tight angle after a cross from Josko Gvardiol.
The goal was initially ruled offside but awarded following a VAR review. Video evidence indicated that defender Patrick Dorgu’s outstretched foot had kept Haaland onside.
United struck the woodwork twice, through Marcus Rashford and Kobbie Mainoo either side of half-time, but failed to convert their numerical advantage.
The result lifted City to second place on 12 points from four matches, level with leaders Arsenal but behind on goal difference. United remained 13th with four points from four games.
“It’s a new experience for me to win with 10 men. It’s amazing to be honest,” Haaland told Sky Sports after the match.
In a statement issued later, Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) informed Manchester United of an error in the decision.
“Following the incident in the 60th minute of Sunday’s Premier League fixture between Manchester United and Manchester City at Old Trafford, we can provide clarification regarding Erling Haaland’s awarded goal,” the statement said.
“The on-field decision was offside against Erling Haaland – that was checked by VAR and he was found to be in an onside position.
“In the same attack, it was established that Enzo Fernandez did not play the ball and therefore that makes any offside offence subjective, however, on this occasion, the VAR did not recognise the likely impact of his position and should have recommended an on-field review.
“Contact has been made with Manchester United this evening to acknowledge what we deem is an error of judgement. A review of the incident will take place.”
