The Premier League’s Match Centre has explained why Manchester City’s stoppage-time goal against Wolves was allowed after initially being disallowed for offside.
The controversy arose when John Stones scored a header in the 95th minute, giving City a 2-1 lead. However, the goal was initially ruled out as Bernardo Silva was deemed offside and obstructing Wolves goalkeeper Jose Sa’s view.
Following a review, VAR instructed on-field referee Chris Kavanagh to recheck the footage.
After viewing the incident, Kavanagh overturned the offside decision, ruling that Silva’s positioning did not interfere with the goalkeeper’s ability to make a save. As a result, the goal was reinstated, securing City’s win.
After the match, the Premier League Match Centre’s official X account clarified that Silva was initially considered offside for blocking the goalkeeper’s line of sight.
However, upon review, it was determined that Silva was not obstructing the goalkeeper’s view or ability to play the ball. Based on this, the goal was allowed to stand.
The decision followed the Football Association’s rules, which state that a player should only be penalized for offside if their position interferes with an opponent’s ability to challenge for the ball or impedes their movement toward the ball.
Since Silva did not meet these criteria, the goal was permitted, playing a crucial role in Manchester City’s victory.
