Manchester City beat Manchester United 1-0 at Old Trafford in a derby packed with drama and VAR controversy.
The 199th Manchester derby produced a red card, a disputed goal and a rare post-match apology from the refereeing body.
Foden Sees Red in Derby Clash
The game erupted in the 23rd minute when referee Michael Oliver sent off Phil Foden.
Foden clashed with United captain Bruno Fernandes before kicking him in the midriff. Oliver immediately showed the City star a straight red card.
VAR reviewed the incident and backed Oliver’s decision for violent conduct.
City then faced more than an hour of intense pressure with 10 men.
Haaland Goal Sparks Controversy
Despite the setback, City broke the deadlock in the 60th minute through Erling Haaland.
The Norwegian striker found space at the far post and tapped home a cross. The assistant referee initially flagged for offside.
VAR later overturned the call after confirming that United defender Patrick Dorgu had played Haaland onside.
However, United players protested because City midfielder Enzo Fernández stood in an offside position near the goal.
Fernández did not touch the ball but moved towards it. United argued that his movement distracted the defence and affected the play.
Manager Michael Carrick called the decision “staggering”. Defender Lisandro Martínez described it as an “injustice”.
Refereeing Body Admits Error in the Manchester Derby
The controversy continued after the final whistle.
Three hours later, Pro Ref reportedly contacted Manchester United and admitted an “error of judgement” over the goal.
The refereeing body said VAR official Matt Donohue failed to properly assess Fernández’s involvement.
Pro Ref also acknowledged that officials should have disallowed the goal for active interference.
City still collected all three points despite playing most of the match with 10 men.
The victory keeps their perfect start alive, while United must regroup after another painful derby defeat.
