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Referee Defends Offside Call on Van Dijk's Goal

11/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Howard Webb, chief refereeing officer of PGMOL, said disallowing Virgil van Dijk's header was not unreasonable.
The goal was ruled offside after Andy Robertson interfered with goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Liverpool coach Arne Slot argued the decision was incorrect.
Webb acknowledged subjectivity in officiating and said VAR confirmed the on-field decision because of Robertson's proximity and action.

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Story summary

Howard Webb, chief refereeing officer of PGMOL, said disallowing Virgil van Dijk's header was not unreasonable.
The goal was ruled offside after Andy Robertson interfered with goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Liverpool coach Arne Slot argued the decision was incorrect.
Webb acknowledged subjectivity in officiating and said VAR confirmed the on-field decision because of Robertson's proximity and action.