Why Virgil van Dijk’s Goal Against Man City Was Unjustly Ruled Out by VAR

Virgil van Dijk thought he had levelled the score for Liverpool against Manchester City, only to see his goal ruled out for offside.

The flag went up shortly after the Dutch defender appeared to have cancelled out Erling Haaland’s opener, with Andy Robertson deemed to be standing in an offside position and obstructing Gianluigi Donnarumma’s view.

VAR backed referee Chris Kavanagh’s decision, agreeing that while Robertson was indeed offside, he had also made an “obvious action” in front of the goalkeeper by ducking as Van Dijk’s header flew past—allegedly impeding Donnarumma’s line of sight.

According to the Premier League’s rules, a player is penalised for offside if they:

Clearly block an opponent’s view of the ball,

Challenge an opponent for the ball,

Attempt to play the ball in a way that affects an opponent, or

Make an obvious action that impacts an opponent’s ability to play the ball.

However, many felt the officials made the wrong call. While Robertson was in front of Donnarumma, replays showed the Italian goalkeeper had an almost clear view of Van Dijk’s header and little chance of saving it. Robertson’s movement seemed instinctive rather than obstructive.

Former Manchester City defender Micah Richards was among those who disagreed with the decision. Speaking on Sky Sports, he said:

“I wouldn’t agree with that. I think it’s harsh. The goalkeeper can see it all the way.”

Gary Neville also sided with Liverpool, saying on commentary:

“I think [Robertson] is outside the goalkeeper’s eyeline. Slot has every right to be fuming—there’s no way the keeper’s getting to that.”

Although Liverpool’s overall performance at the Etihad left much to be desired, the controversial VAR call arguably changed the course of the game, denying Arne Slot’s side a vital equaliser before Nico Gonzalez’s strike sealed the result for City.