Early Controversy at Anfield: Liverpool Left Furious After United’s Opening Goal
It took less than 70 seconds for drama to unfold between Liverpool and Manchester United at Anfield.
United fans erupted in celebration when Bryan Mbeumo fired the visitors ahead with a fierce strike that beat Giorgi Mamardashvili at his near post. But moments later, replays revealed a potential issue — Alexis Mac Allister was down on the turf clutching his head during the build-up.
Under current safety protocols, referees are instructed to stop play immediately for head injuries. However, referee Michael Oliver allowed play to continue, and Mbeumo’s goal stood.
Many fans were left baffled, but commentator Peter Drury later clarified on Sky Sports:
“The information from PGMOL is that the referee didn’t see the injury, so he couldn’t stop the game.”
Had Oliver noticed Mac Allister’s condition, he could have halted play — preventing the goal entirely.
To make matters worse for Liverpool, replays confirmed no foul had occurred. Mac Allister had been accidentally struck by teammate Virgil van Dijk while both challenged for a high ball — an unfortunate case of friendly fire.
United Take Early Control
The early goal rattled Liverpool, as United dominated the opening stages. Sky Sports’ Gary Neville noted:
“You usually see Van Dijk so assertive. He doesn’t know whether to stick or twist in these opening minutes.”
United created several chances to extend their lead. Amad Diallo caused chaos from the right wing-back position, linking well with Mbeumo, while Bruno Fernandes struck the post after a slick attacking move.
Jamie Carragher, watching from the commentary box, said:
“It should be 2-0. Every time United go forward quickly, they outnumber Liverpool.”
Liverpool’s Response
Despite the setback, Liverpool tried to regain control. Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo combined dangerously, with Gakpo hitting the post after a flowing counterattack.
A penalty shout followed when Gakpo’s cross struck Amad’s arm, but VAR and the referee agreed there was no infraction.
Sky Sports’ Adam Bate summed up the mood:
“Liverpool fans are growing restless. The team’s tempo is slow, and the attacking patterns aren’t quite clicking.”
Still, Salah’s dangerous free-kick delivery almost brought an equalizer, but Van Dijk’s header drifted wide.
The Head Injury Debate
As frustration grew, the earlier controversy continued to dominate discussion. Sky Sports reiterated the explanation from match officials:
“The referee didn’t see the head injury, and therefore couldn’t stop play.”
Carragher added:
“He was clearly on the floor holding his head. You can understand Liverpool’s anger.”
Half-Time Summary
By the midway point, United led 1-0 thanks to Mbeumo’s early strike, while Liverpool struggled to find their rhythm. Their defense looked unsettled, and United’s high energy continued to cause problems.
Sky Sports reporter Vinny O’Connor observed:
“Liverpool just can’t find that clinical edge. They’re creating half-chances but lack sharpness in the final third.”
With the home crowd growing restless and the referee’s decision still under scrutiny, Anfield braced itself for an intense second half.
