Manchester United Hit by Controversial VAR Handball Call as Liverpool Steal the Spotlight with Salah’s Penalty

In a game filled with intensity and pivotal moments, the Premier League clash between Manchester United and Liverpool added another chapter to their storied rivalry. The match, already brimming with competitive spirit, escalated into controversy when Manchester United defender Matthijs de Ligt was penalized for a handball, leading to a game-changing penalty for Liverpool. This decision has not only sparked debates across fan forums but has also drawn criticism from football analysts including Gary Neville.

Expert Analysis and Player Reaction

During the tense matchup at Anfield, Manchester United displayed resilience and took an early lead courtesy of Lisandro Martinez. However, Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo quickly leveled the score, setting the stage for a nail-biting contest. The real drama unfolded midway through the second half when a cross from Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold struck the arm of Matthijs de Ligt. The initial call by referee Michael Oliver to play on was met with a swift review from VAR, handled by Chris Kavanagh, who recommended a second look at the incident.
Upon review, Oliver reversed his decision, awarding Liverpool a penalty. Mohamed Salah, known for his composure, capitalized on this opportunity, propelling Liverpool ahead. This pivotal moment shifted the momentum of the game and highlighted the significant impact of VAR in modern football.

The Continued Battle and Implications

Gary Neville, a former Manchester United player and current football analyst, expressed his concerns over De Ligt’s positioning during the incident. Neville commented, “I think his hand is high. I think he could be in trouble is my initial reaction. I saw it in real time when your hand is up there, you are asking for big trouble.” His critique underscores a fundamental question about the consistency of handball calls and the role of VAR in such decisions.
Neville further questioned the necessity of De Ligt’s hand placement, suggesting that such a posture in the penalty box almost invariably leads to adverse outcomes. “Why is his hand there? I don’t know why his hand is there at all. That is the one where you don’t get away with it, and he’s not going to get away with it,” Neville added, emphasizing the defender’s error in judgment.

Despite the setback, Manchester United did not retreat. Ruben Amorim’s tactical adjustments saw Amad Diallo, the young Ivorian forward, equalizing for United, demonstrating the team’s resolve and depth. This back-and-forth encounter not only entertained but also hinted at Manchester United’s potential resurgence and Liverpool’s relentless pursuit of the title.
The handball incident and subsequent penalty have reignited discussions about VAR’s influence on the game’s outcome. While some argue that technology in sports is essential for fairness, others believe it disrupts the flow of the game. This latest incident serves as a perfect example of the ongoing debate in football circles.