Why Manchester United’s Controversial Opening Goal Against Liverpool Was Allowed to Stand

The controversy surrounding Manchester United’s opening goal against Liverpool has finally been clarified.

 

Liverpool welcomed their fierce rivals Manchester United to Anfield on Sunday in one of the most anticipated fixtures of the Premier League season.

 

Before kick-off, much of the debate revolved around Ruben Amorim’s lineup choices, particularly his decision to leave in-form striker Benjamin Šeško on the bench despite his recent scoring streak.

 

However, Amorim silenced critics almost immediately as his side took an early lead through winger Bryan Mbeumo.

 

The goal sparked outrage among Liverpool supporters, who questioned why play hadn’t been stopped moments earlier when Alexis Mac Allister suffered an apparent head injury in the buildup.

 

Replays showed the Argentine midfielder accidentally caught by Virgil van Dijk’s elbow while both challenged for the ball, just seconds before Mbeumo found the net.

 

According to Premier League rules, referees are permitted to stop play for potential head injuries, but Michael Oliver opted to let the game continue, later explaining that he hadn’t seen the incident occur.

 

Mac Allister received medical attention on the field as manager Arne Slot voiced his frustrations to the fourth official. Fortunately, the midfielder was later cleared to continue and rejoined the match wearing protective headgear.