Haaland’s disputed goal wins Manchester derby for 10-man City against United

MANCHESTER, England (AP) — Erling Haaland’s hotly contested goal settled the 199th Manchester derby on Sunday.

The Norwegian struck in the 60th minute at Old Trafford to seal a 1-0 win for 10-man Manchester City over fierce rival Manchester United in the Premier League.

At first, the goal was ruled out for offside, but after VAR review the onfield decision was overturned. That sparked a roar of celebration from the away fans.

United’s players were incensed by the decision, with Enzo Fernandez appearing to be in an offside position during the buildup. But the Premier League said the goal was allowed because, despite diving to head the ball, the Argentine did not get a touch before it reached Haaland at the far post.

However, league rules state a player is interfering with play when “clearly attempting to play a ball which is close when this action impacts on an opponent.”

City will feel justice was done after Phil Foden was sent off in the 23rd for kicking out at Bruno Fernandes.

With an extra man United hit the post either side of halftime – first from Marcus Rashford’s long-range free kick and then Kobbie Mainoo’s low shot from the edge of the area.

Haaland’s goal makes him the top scorer in the Manchester derby in Premier League history with nine.

City moved level on points with defending champion Arsenal at the top of the standings.

Coventry routed

Coventry’s nightmare start to the season continued with a 5-0 home loss to Brighton.

After running away at the top of the Championship last season it has been a rude awakening for Frank Lampard’s team since its return to England’s top flight.

Four straight defeats leaves Coventry rooted to the foot of the standings without a goal and a goal difference of minus 10.

Brighton led 1-0 at halftime through Charalampos Kostoulas before going on a scoring spree after the break with goals from Malick Yalcouye, Pascal Gross, Lewis Dunk and Yasin Ayari.

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James Robson is at https://x.com/jamesalanrobson

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