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Ref admits offside error as Haaland goal stands

By Drooid · Sep 13, 2026, 9:58 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Manchester City Wins

Manchester City beat Manchester United 1-0 at Old Trafford after Erling Haaland’s goal was upheld.
VAR ruled Haaland on-side because Patrick Dorgu’s foot blocked the cross.
Pro Ref later admitted an error of judgement in the decision and will review it.
Lisandro Martínez called the ruling an injustice in his post-match interview.

Summary

Haaland Sets Record

Erling Haaland became the Manchester derby’s all-time Premier League top scorer with nine goals, overtaking Aguero and Rooney.
Manchester City became the second visiting side to win at Old Trafford after a red card, matching Everton’s 2025 victory.
The win left City unbeaten with twelve points, second only to Arsenal on goal difference after four games.
Semi-automated offside technology confirmed Haaland was on-side despite the initial flag.

History

Historical Context

The Premier League introduced Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in 2019, promising to curb refereeing mistakes in English football. The Football Association deployed twenty certified VAR officials, investing approximately £1.5 million for the system’s first season. In the recent Manchester derby, VAR upheld Erling Haaland’s goal after semi-automated offside technology confirmed his on-side position, echoing the league’s early video-review reliance. That 2019 precedent now compels referees, clubs like Manchester City and Manchester United, and the FA to sharpen protocols, shaping future match outcomes.

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Manchester City Wins

Manchester City beat Manchester United 1-0 at Old Trafford after Erling Haaland’s goal was upheld.
VAR ruled Haaland on-side because Patrick Dorgu’s foot blocked the cross.
Pro Ref later admitted an error of judgement in the decision and will review it.
Lisandro Martínez called the ruling an injustice in his post-match interview.

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