In a recent match between Manchester City and Liverpool, former Premier League referee Mark Halsey explained that VAR's controversial intervention to disallow a goal was justified. The incident occurred at the end of a tense match that saw City edge out Liverpool 2-1. Halsey stated that referee Craig Pawson had 'no choice' but to call the decision after a foul by Dominik Szoboszlai, which prevented Erling Haaland from contesting for the ball as it approached the goal.

Liverpool fans reacted with anger following the decision, recalling that Szoboszlai's action was pivotal in stopping the play that could have confirmed City's win. Despite the uproar, Halsey emphasized that the VAR checks conducted were essential in maintaining the integrity of the match. He reiterated that the rules in place are designed to prevent players from gaining an unfair advantage and that Szoboszlai's foul warranted the disallowing of the goal.

This incident has reignited discussions about the effectiveness and interpretation of VAR in football, especially in high-stakes matches where every decision can drastically alter the outcome. While some may criticize the technology for its involvement in such controversial moments, Halsey's remarks highlight the complexities referees face in enforcing the rules while striving to provide a fair outcome on the pitch.