Reason behind Manchester United’s opening goal against Liverpool being allowed to stand revealed
Bryan Mbeumo fired Manchester United into an early lead against Liverpool — but the decision to let the goal stand has now been explained.
Sunday’s clash between Liverpool and their fierce rivals Manchester United at Anfield was one of the most anticipated fixtures of the Premier League season. Ahead of kickoff, much of the attention surrounded Ruben Amorim’s lineup choices, with Benjamin Sesko surprisingly left on the bench despite scoring in his last two outings.
However, Amorim’s decision was quickly justified as United struck within minutes through winger Bryan Mbeumo.
The goal, though, sparked major controversy among Liverpool supporters, who questioned why play wasn’t stopped moments earlier when Alexis Mac Allister appeared to suffer a head injury in the buildup.
Just before Mbeumo broke through the Liverpool defence to score, Mac Allister was accidentally struck by Virgil van Dijk’s elbow while challenging a United attacker.
According to the Premier League’s current regulations, referees are permitted to stop play for potential head injuries. However, Michael Oliver allowed the match to continue, reportedly insisting that he did not see the incident.
Mac Allister later received treatment on the pitch, while Liverpool manager Arne Slot was seen discussing the decision with the fourth official on the sidelines. The Argentine midfielder was eventually cleared to continue, returning to the pitch wearing protective headgear.
Despite this, many fans took to social media to argue that Oliver had indeed seen the incident but chose not to act.
One supporter wrote, “The ref ‘didn’t see’ Mac Allister holding his head on the ground? Ridiculous.”
Another added, “If Michael Oliver can’t spot a player down holding his head right where the ball was, he shouldn’t be refereeing.”
Even The Athletic’s James Pearce criticised the official’s call, posting: “Wow. Michael Oliver with a strong contender for worst decision of the season. Mac Allister brought down, free kick goes the other way.”
