The reason why Erling Haaland’s opener for Manchester City against Real Madrid was allowed to stand has been revealed.
Haaland’s Goal Sparks Controversy in Champions League Clash
Tuesday night’s UEFA Champions League playoff between Real Madrid and Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium saw early drama as Erling Haaland’s goal in the 19th minute became the subject of intense debate.
After Carlo Ancelotti’s side missed several early chances, Haaland finished off a well-worked move involving Jack Grealish and Josko Gvardiol, putting City ahead. However, many initially believed the Norwegian was offside, leading to a lengthy VAR review.
Despite the goal being given, fans on social media were unconvinced, with some claiming Real Madrid had been robbed. One supporter tweeted, “You don’t even need VAR to see that Haaland was offside!” while another added, “VAR City strikes again.”
However, a later UEFA replay confirmed Haaland was actually behind the ball when the pass was played, meaning he was in an onside position. Spanish outlet MARCA clarified the ruling, explaining, “The offside debate was unnecessary—Haaland’s position was legal.”
The goal remains a talking point, adding to the drama of the highly anticipated Champions League showdown between two European giants.
Chris Waddle Praises City’s Goal as Madrid Search for an Equalizer
Reacting to Erling Haaland’s opener against Real Madrid, former Newcastle and England star Chris Waddle described the goal as “absolutely class.” Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, he praised the build-up, saying:
“Jack Grealish just dinks it into Josko Gvardiol, and he chests it down to Erling Haaland for the finish. What a wonderful move.”
Despite falling behind, Madrid pushed for an equalizer before the break, with Kylian Mbappe missing a crucial chance late in the first half, curling his shot high and wide.
As Los Blancos trailed 1-0 at halftime, attention shifted to the second leg at the Bernabéu next week, where they will look to turn things around.
