HeadlinesBriefing favicon HeadlinesBriefing.com

Silva Slams Ref After Haaland Denied Penalty in City Draw

Sky Sports Champions League •
×

Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva launched a scathing critique of referee Darren England after Erling Haaland was denied a clear penalty in a 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest. Silva claimed all 50-50s had gone against City this season, specifically citing Haaland's clipped run into the box before the equalizer. The incident left City seven points behind Arsenal in the Premier League title race, though they retain a game in hand. Guardiola acknowledged the setback but refused to concede title hopes, shifting focus to the FA Cup against Newcastle.

City's failure to capitalize on 13 points from winning positions this season was starkly highlighted by the draw. Their two dropped points at home - their first since November - came after conceding twice for the first time in months. Arsenal's draw at Wolves had previously put the title in City's hands, but their Forest loss now makes it mathematically possible for Arteta's side to win the title if they win seven of their remaining eight games. Guardiola emphasized the need to move forward, stating 'we keep going' despite the damaging result.

The match saw Haaland also claim a second penalty shout when his arm was tugged by Neco Williams, while Rodri went down under contact late on. Silva's frustration centered on the perceived injustice of the Haaland incident, arguing 'we cannot control these things' and must focus on 'our own performances' to close the gap on Arsenal. City's psychological blow was compounded by their inability to secure victory despite leading twice.