Controversial VAR Decision Denies Liverpool Equalizer Against Manchester City

Liverpool were left furious at the Etihad Stadium after a controversial VAR decision ruled out Virgil van Dijk’s equalizer, as Manchester City went on to secure a crucial Premier League victory that further fueled debate over video officiating.

After Erling Haaland’s early opener, Liverpool appeared to have levelled the score when Van Dijk powered home a header from Mohamed Salah’s corner. However, their celebrations were quickly cut short when the assistant referee raised his flag for offside.

The focus of the decision was Andrew Robertson, who stood just a yard in front of goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma inside the six-yard box. While Robertson did not touch the ball and appeared to pull away from the play, VAR confirmed that his position interfered with the goalkeeper’s ability to make a save.

According to a statement released by the Premier League Match Centre, the offside ruling was justified because Robertson “committed an obvious action which impacted an opponent’s ability to play the ball.” The goal was therefore disallowed, leaving Liverpool players and manager Arne Slot visibly frustrated on the touchline.

The decision has sparked widespread controversy among fans and pundits alike. Many argued that Donnarumma would have had little chance of stopping Van Dijk’s header, regardless of Robertson’s proximity.

Moments after the disallowed goal, City doubled their lead, taking full advantage of Liverpool’s frustration before halftime — a turning point that proved decisive in the outcome of the match.

Social Media Reactions: Outrage and Accusations of Bias

Football fans flooded social media with strong reactions to the decision.
User @markgoldbridge wrote:

“Got to say that is a joke. Keeper is at full stretch and Robertson isn’t interfering with play. Another shocker.”

@Abdulba71267148 called it “complete robbery,” while @JonnyGibson33 added:

“He’s miles away from the keeper, the ball literally moving away from the goal and then ducks. Incredible decision.”

Others accused officials of inconsistency and favoritism. @holly82649091 claimed:

“They want a title race between Arsenal and City.”

Meanwhile, @mo11salahh pointed out a double standard, writing:

“Bernardo Silva against Wolves last season — goal given. Robertson against City this season — goal NOT given.”

The incident reignites ongoing concerns about the subjectivity of VAR and the interpretation of “interfering with play”, a gray area that continues to spark heated debate in the Premier League.