Manchester United’s dramatic FA Cup victory over Leicester City has been overshadowed by controversy, as Harry Maguire’s stoppage-time winner should have been ruled out for offside. However, due to a rule loophole, the goal was allowed to stand, leaving Leicester furious over the decision.
Maguire, who netted the decisive goal in the 93rd minute, was clearly offside when Bruno Fernandes delivered the cross. ITV commentator Lee Dixon even described it as “miles offside.” However, the linesman failed to flag the infringement, and with VAR not being used at this stage of the FA Cup, the goal was upheld.
Why VAR Was Not Used
The Football Association (FA) decided that VAR would only come into effect from the fifth round onwards. Previously, video technology was available in the third and fourth rounds but only at Premier League stadiums due to infrastructure and cost constraints.
The FA clarified in a statement:
“VAR will only be used in the Emirates FA Cup from the Fifth Round onwards to ensure consistent refereeing across all fixtures.”
This decision has sparked outrage, as teams playing away from Premier League grounds are subject to different officiating standards.
Leicester’s Frustration
Leicester City manager and former Manchester United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy was livid after the match. Speaking to ITV, he said:
“We were not beaten in Fergie time; we were beaten in offside time. This was half a meter offside—clear as day. The team deserved to go into extra time and fight for a result.”
Roy Keane also criticized the officiating, stating:
“The linesman has to see it. United got out of jail tonight. Their performance wasn’t good enough.”
Match Recap
Leicester City initially took the lead just before halftime, with Bobby De Cordova-Reid capitalizing on a rebound. United responded in the second half when substitute Joshua Zirkzee equalized in the 68th minute. Then, in the dying moments of stoppage time, Maguire’s controversial header sealed a 2-1 victory, propelling United into the FA Cup fifth round.
With VAR set to be reintroduced in the next stage of the competition, Leicester’s frustration highlights the inconsistencies in officiating. Meanwhile, United fans celebrate their dramatic win, despite the contentious circumstances surrounding Maguire’s goal.
