Manchester United raced into an early advantage against Liverpool FC at Old Trafford, but it was Benjamin Sesko’s disputed second goal that dominated the headlines.
The home side had already made a blistering start when Matheus Cunha found the net within six minutes, capitalising on Liverpool after an energetic opening spell from Erik ten Hag’s team.
Just eight minutes later, United doubled their lead. Bruno Fernandes guided the ball into a dangerous area, and although goalkeeper Freddie Woodman tried to deal with it, he could only deflect it into the path of Sesko.
What followed was a scramble, as the ball struck the striker in an awkward sequence—seemingly hitting different parts of his body—before crossing the line for 2-0.
Liverpool players, along with manager Arne Slot, immediately protested, suspecting a handball after replays appeared to show the ball brushing Sesko’s hand.
A VAR review lasting around three minutes examined several angles to determine whether any infringement had occurred. In the end, the decision stood, with officials ruling there was no clear evidence of handball.
The Premier League Match Centre later clarified: “The referee’s decision to award the goal was checked and confirmed by VAR, as there was no conclusive proof that Sesko handled the ball before scoring.”
That call gave Manchester United a commanding 2-0 lead and left Liverpool with a difficult task, especially without key players like Mohamed Salah, Alisson Becker, and Alexander Isak.
However, Liverpool responded strongly after halftime. Dominik Szoboszlai reduced the deficit before Cody Gakpo equalised to make it 2-2.
Despite the comeback, Sesko’s controversial goal—and the VAR decision behind it—could remain one of the most talked-about moments in a thrilling contest with significant implications for Champions League qualification.
