World News

Referees body admits error in awarding Manchester City derby goal

Match officials were stood down after incorrectly allowing Erling Haaland's winner against Manchester United.

Updated Sep 16, 2026 · 11:54 UTC4 reports

The short version

Manchester City defeated Manchester United 1-0 after Erling Haaland scored a second-half goal despite teammate Phil Foden receiving a red card in the 23rd minute.[Al Jazeera · BBC News]
Referee chief Howard Webb admitted VAR officials made a mistake by awarding the goal, citing 'tunnel vision' for failing to spot an offside offence by Enzo Fernandez.[Al Jazeera · BBC News]
VAR officials Matt Donohue and Blake Antrobus have been stood down from upcoming Premier League fixtures until after the international break.[Al Jazeera · Al Jazeera]
City manager Enzo Maresca criticized the intense focus on the officiating controversy, arguing it overshadowed his ten-man squad's overall performance.[BBC News]

Phil Foden was sent off in the 23rd minute for kicking out at Bruno Fernandes during Manchester City's 1-0 derby win over Manchester United.[Al Jazeera]
Erling Haaland scored the decisive goal on the hour mark after an initial on-field offside decision was overturned by VAR.[Al Jazeera · BBC News]
Referees body chief Howard Webb stated that VAR officials suffered from 'tunnel vision' and missed an offside offence by Enzo Fernandez in the build-up.[Al Jazeera]
VAR officials Matt Donohue and Blake Antrobus were stood down from upcoming Premier League matches following the error.[Al Jazeera]

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.