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VAR Review: Was Man United's Penalty, Red Card Decision Correct?

ESPN Soccer •
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Manchester United's 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace hinged on a pivotal VAR review in the 52nd minute. Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix was sent off for denying Matheus Cunha a clear goal-scoring opportunity after pulling him down inside the penalty area. The incident occurred after Lacroix had earlier scored Palace's opening goal in the fourth minute.

Referee Chris Kavanagh initially awarded a penalty, which Bruno Fernandes converted. The VAR, Tony Harrington, recommended an on-field review for a possible red card for denying a goal-scoring opportunity (DOGSO). After reviewing the footage, Kavanagh overturned his original decision and issued Lacroix a red card, dramatically altering the match's complexion.

With Palace reduced to 10 men, Manchester United capitalized as Benjamin Sesko scored the winning goal eight minutes later. The victory propelled United to third place in the Premier League table. Former Select Group referee Andy Davies explained that the VAR correctly identified all criteria for DOGSO were met, including distance from goal, direction of play, and the attacker's likelihood of retaining possession.