VAR error allows Erling Haaland goal in Manchester derby

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland scored a goal that should have been disallowed for offside in the Manchester derby, according to Ref Watch on Sky Sports. The VAR decision to allow the goal has been heavily criticised, with experts questioning why the clear offside was missed. The incident occurred on Monday 14 September 2026.

  • Competition: Premier League
  • Match: Manchester derby
  • Incident: Erling Haaland goal allowed despite offside
  • VAR decision: Goal incorrectly awarded
  • Key question: Why did VAR get the Haaland goal so wrong?

What was said

"You can't lose focus"

— Sky Sports Ref Watch, on the VAR error

The quote from Sky Sports' Ref Watch highlights the critical mistake made by the VAR team. Losing focus at a key moment led to an incorrect decision that could have altered the outcome of the Manchester derby.

Why VAR got the Haaland goal wrong

The VAR error in the Manchester derby has sparked widespread debate. Erling Haaland's goal, which appeared to be clearly offside, was allowed to stand after a VAR review. The decision has been described as a major mistake by refereeing experts, who point to a loss of focus as the root cause. The incident raises serious questions about the consistency and reliability of VAR in high-stakes matches.

Manchester City benefited from the error, but the broader implications for the Premier League are significant. The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) is likely to face pressure to explain how such a clear offside was missed. The derby's outcome could have been different had the correct decision been made, adding to the growing list of VAR controversies this season.

Talking points

  • Should VAR officials be held publicly accountable for clear errors like the Haaland offside?
  • Does the mistake prove that VAR technology is still not reliable enough for decisive moments?
  • How would the Manchester derby have unfolded if the goal had been correctly disallowed?
  • What does this mean for the pressure on referees and VAR operators in future matches?

What happens next

Sky Sports' Ref Watch will continue to analyse the incident, but the immediate focus will be on whether PGMOL issues an explanation. The next round of Premier League fixtures will see increased scrutiny on VAR decisions, with referees under pressure to avoid further errors.

Frequently asked questions

Why was Erling Haaland's goal allowed to stand?

According to Sky Sports, VAR incorrectly allowed the goal despite a clear offside. The decision was a mistake, with the VAR team apparently losing focus.

Which match did the VAR error occur in?

The error occurred in the Manchester derby on Monday 14 September 2026, as reported by Sky Sports.

What did Sky Sports say about the VAR decision?

Sky Sports' Ref Watch highlighted the error with the quote "You can't lose focus," and questioned why VAR got the Haaland goal so wrong.

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