The controversy surrounding the dramatic showdown between and has taken another twist — and now, fans finally have access to what was said behind the scenes.

The (PGMOL) have officially released both the audio and full transcript of the VAR discussion that led to Manchester City’s late goal being ruled out in their heated encounter earlier this month.

And the details? They reveal just how complex — and chaotic — that moment truly was.

⚽ The Dramatic Moment That Changed Everything

At the start of February, Liverpool looked in control after fired home a stunning free-kick to put the Reds ahead.

But City responded late, with goals from and turning the match on its head.

Then came the chaos.

With pushed upfield in a desperate attempt to help Liverpool snatch an equaliser, Haaland broke through toward an open goal after receiving a through ball from .

In the build-up, Szoboszlai and Haaland tangled. Both players went down. The ball eventually crossed the line — sparking wild celebrations among the away fans.

But referee had other ideas.

🎧 Inside the VAR Conversation

Initially, Pawson signalled a goal and indicated he had attempted to play advantage following an earlier pull by Szoboszlai on Haaland.

However, the VAR team — led by — began reviewing multiple incidents in the same sequence.

The discussion revealed three key elements:

• A possible offside check
• A foul by Szoboszlai on Haaland (potential DOGSO)
• A holding offence by Haaland on a Liverpool defender

The VAR officials concluded that although Pawson attempted to play advantage, Haaland’s subsequent foul directly impacted the outcome of the goal. Because the ball only found the net after Haaland had committed a holding offence, the goal could not legally stand.

At the same time, they determined that Szoboszlai’s initial pull on Haaland denied a clear goalscoring opportunity — meaning a red card was required.

The final decision:

❌ Goal disallowed

🔴 Red card for Szoboszlai

⚽ Direct free-kick to Manchester City

🗣️ Howard Webb Explains the Decision

Speaking on the Premier League’s “Match Officials Mic’d Up” programme, addressed why the goal could not simply be allowed while ignoring both fouls.

Webb clarified that while referees aim to apply common sense, there are limits. According to him, the goal was only possible because Haaland committed a foul that prevented Szoboszlai from clearing the ball. Therefore, it could not be treated as a legitimate advantage.

Since Szoboszlai’s foul occurred first — outside the penalty area — and denied an obvious goalscoring opportunity, the correct restart was a free-kick and dismissal.

In Webb’s words, VAR ultimately guided the officials back to the “right place” in the sequence of events.

🔥 Guardiola’s Reaction and Ongoing Debate

The decision sparked criticism from , who questioned the interpretation after the match. Supporters from both sides remain divided, with many arguing whether advantage should have been allowed to stand.

But with the audio now public, fans have clearer insight into how the call was reached — even if the debate itself refuses to die.

🧐 What This Means Going Forward

The release of full VAR transcripts marks another step toward transparency in English football. Whether it reduces controversy or fuels further debate remains to be seen.

One thing is certain — this incident will be referenced for a long time whenever discussions about VAR consistency and decision-making arise.

And in a title race where every point matters, moments like these can define entire seasons.