Anfield erupted in disbelief after Liverpool conceded just two minutes into their clash with Manchester United, but the real controversy came moments earlier — when referee Michael Oliver failed to stop play despite Alexis Mac Allister suffering a head injury.
The sequence unfolded when Virgil van Dijk’s elbow accidentally struck Mac Allister during a defensive challenge, leaving the Argentine midfielder dazed and momentarily down on the pitch. Instead of halting the game to allow medical attention — as required under head injury protocol — Oliver allowed play to continue.
United immediately capitalized on Liverpool’s moment of disorganization, launching a quick counterattack that ended with Bryan Mbeumo firing past the goalkeeper to make it 1–0. The goal sent shockwaves through the stadium, and frustration quickly turned toward the officials.
Liverpool players appealed for the game to be stopped, pointing out that Mac Allister was clearly injured, but their protests were ignored. The decision has since sparked debate among fans and pundits, many arguing that player safety should always take precedence, particularly in cases involving head injuries.
While the goal stands, the incident has left Liverpool supporters furious — not only because of the defensive error but because of the referee’s failure to follow concussion guidelines.
As the match continues, the question lingers: should Michael Oliver have stopped play? For many watching, the answer seems obvious — and it could prove a defining moment in an already heated rivalry.
