Man Utd's Maguire goal stands after VAR clears handball in 5-2 win vs Ipswich

Manchester United defender Harry Maguire's goal stood after a VAR review cleared an apparent handball during the build-up, securing the Red Devils' 5-2 Premier League win over Ipswich Town on Sunday. Maguire used his arm to gather possession before shooting; the ball deflected off Ipswich's Jacob Greaves and crossed the line. Although many expected the goal to be disallowed, officials ruled that because Maguire was not the player who ultimately scored, the unintentional handball could not be penalised under current laws. The decision sparked immediate debate among commentators, with some arguing the handball was clear and others defending the VAR outcome.

Bruno Fernandes delivered a hat-trick for United, while Bryan Mbeumo got Ipswich's consolation goal. The result keeps United in the top-four chase and highlights how the handball rule applies only to the scorer, not to teammates who create the chance.

For Nigerian fans watching the EPL, does this interpretation feel fair, or should the law be changed to treat any handball in the build-up as an offence?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/08/31/epl-why-man-utds-goal-was-not-cancelled-after-maguires-handball/