Ex-PGMOL Chief Destroys 'Ludicrous' Controversy as Man City Goal Ruled Out vs Newcastle United

In a heated Carabao Cup semi-final first leg at St. James' Park on January 13, referee Chris Kavanagh sparked outrage by disallowing a Man City goal from Antoine Semenyo, a decision slammed as one of the worst of the 2025-26 season.[1]

Antoine Semenyo, who opened the scoring earlier, appeared to double Manchester City's lead in the 63rd minute by flicking in a corner past Newcastle keeper Nick Pope from close range. However, after a prolonged VAR review, Kavanagh ruled it out for offside involving Erling Haaland.[1]

The call drew immediate fury, with critics arguing Haaland, though marginally offside, had no realistic chance of interfering with Pope, who was already beaten. Former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett, a vocal Kavanagh detractor this season, labeled the controversy "ludicrous," destroying claims of correct officiating and highlighting Kavanagh's pattern of errors.[1]

The match was feisty from the start. Early on, Newcastle's Joelinton escaped sanction for a studs-up challenge on Phil Foden, only earning a booking later for an off-the-ball incident. Despite the setback, City held firm, with Rayan Cherki sealing a 2-0 win in added time, keeping them favorites for the second leg.[1]

Key Controversies:

• Haaland Offside: Semenyo's goal chalked off despite minimal interference—called "possibly the worst decision" of the season.[1]
• Joelinton Challenge: Late studs-up on Foden goes unpunished initially.[1]
• Kavanagh's Form: Hackett's ongoing criticism of the ref's "disastrous" calls in a "feisty affair."[1]

Fans from both sides vented frustration, amplifying debates on VAR accuracy and refereeing standards in English football's high-stakes cups.[1]