Haaland whistles away Semenyo’s dream goal: a VAR twist at St James’ Park

Context

Manchester City visited Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg, hoping to take a lead back to the Etihad. The evening delivered a lively start with chances at both ends, and Antoine Semenyo made an immediate impact by opening the scoring in the 53rd minute after meeting a cross at the far post.

Moments that defined the night

The new arrival then doubled City’s advantage with a spectacular volley, rising to meet a left‑footed cross while facing away from goal. The moment sent City fans into a celebratory roar—only to have the good times paused by a VAR review for a suspected offside involving Erling Haaland in the build‑up.

The referee checked the monitor and, after reviewing the angle and involvement, ruled the goal out. Haaland’s position allegedly interfered with play, and a defender’s touch was deemed insufficient to clear the line. The stadium’s celebrations were replaced by a chorus of appeals and sighs as City faced a long road to overturning the decision in the return leg.

Final decisions and the next steps aside, the night delivered theatre, controversy, and the kind of late drama that makes football fans joke about needing a crystal ball—and perhaps a new TV provider for the replays.

Punchline 1: If VAR ever goes on holiday, the season might end with a standing ovation for the mystery. Punchline 2: In football, even your dream goal can be vetoed by a committee of slow-motion judges.