Premier League Explains VAR Decision After Haaland Penalty Miss
Manchester City’s match against Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium sparked controversy after Giorgi Mamardashvili fouled Jeremy Doku, leading to a disputed penalty that the Premier League later clarified.
Incident and VAR Review
During the first half, Doku was brought down by Liverpool goalkeeper Mamardashvili. Although the referee, Chris Kavanagh, initially waved play on, the decision was overturned following a VAR review.
“After review, the referee overturned the original decision of no penalty to Manchester City. Referee announcement: ‘After review, the goalkeeper commits a foul challenge on the attacker, the final decision is penalty.’” — Premier League statement
Reactions from Players and Pundits
BBC pundit Danny Murphy questioned the call even after the review.
“There's not enough contact from the keeper for me.” — Danny Murphy
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk expressed his frustration by sarcastically applauding the referee after the decision was confirmed.
Haaland’s Miss and Aftermath
Despite the controversy, Erling Haaland’s penalty was saved by Mamardashvili. There was a brief discussion over whether the goalkeeper had stayed on his line, but the save was ruled valid. Haaland entered the game in excellent scoring form for City this season.
Author’s Summary
The Premier League defended its penalty decision in the City-Liverpool clash, yet dissent and debate persisted after Haaland’s missed spot-kick and Mamardashvili’s crucial save.