Getting goal decision so wrong is 'baffling' - Rooney
September 13, 2026 22:59
Match of the Day analysts Wayne Rooney and Danny Murphy criticised the handling of the Manchester derby's decisive moment, saying it was "baffling" that VAR did not rule out Erling Haaland's winning goal. The pair also judged Phil Foden's red card to have been correctly given.
KEY CONTEXT
The refereeing body has acknowledged there was a judgement error over Haaland's derby winner, according to linked coverage. Rooney and Murphy made their comments during the Match of the Day programme, reflecting pundit scrutiny of both the goal decision and the sending-off.
WHY IT MATTERS
These assessments add to public debate about how VAR and on-field refereeing decisions are applied in high-profile matches. Commentary from prominent figures such as Rooney and Murphy, combined with an admission of error from the refereeing authority, keeps pressure on officials and governing bodies to explain and, if necessary, refine decision-making processes.
WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
Watch for any further statements or clarifications from match officials or the refereeing body following their admission of a judgement error. Media and pundit reaction may continue to focus on consistency in VAR interventions and the standards used for disciplinary decisions.
KEY FACTS
- Wayne Rooney and Danny Murphy discussed the Manchester derby on Match of the Day.
- They called it "baffling" that VAR did not rule out Erling Haaland's winning goal.
- Both pundits considered Phil Foden's red card to be the correct decision.
- The refereeing body has admitted a judgement error regarding Haaland's goal.