Referee chiefs admit error after Manchester United handball goal

Manchester United saw Matheus Cunha's controversial strike awarded on Sunday despite a handball by Bryan Mbeumo seconds earlier. The Professional Game Match Officials (PGMO) have told Nottingham Forest that the goal should not have stood.

Bryan Mbeumo handled the ball in the build‑up to the goal, a decision that sparked immediate debate among players and fans. The handball occurred only seconds before Cunha's shot found the net.

Referee chiefs later admitted that the decision to allow the goal was a mistake. Their acknowledgment came after reviewing the incident in the days following the match.

The PGMO communicated directly with Nottingham Forest, confirming that the goal did not comply with the handball rule. The notification reinforced the officials' admission of error.

Despite the admission, the match result remained unchanged, with Cunha's goal counting on the scoreboard. The outcome of the game therefore stood as recorded.

Looking ahead, the incident may prompt a review of handball guidelines and officiating procedures. Officials are expected to apply any forthcoming clarifications in future fixtures.