Manchester City draws with Bayern as goal scored with flare burning on pitch
Beth Mead's first-half goal for Manchester City came while a purple flare burned on the pitch nearby.
Manchester City drew 2-2 with Bayern Munich in the Women's Champions League opener, clawing back from two goals down. Mead's crucial first-half goal came in the final seconds with a flare burning on the pitch near the play.
Bayern goalkeeper Ena Mahmutovic waved to officials to get their attention as forward Kerstin Casparij crossed, but the referee allowed play to continue. VAR later confirmed the goal would stand.
City improved in the second half and scored an 86th-minute equaliser. Mary Fowler came on in the 63rd minute as City fought back.
The reigning English champions now have momentum heading into their next Champions League match.
- 2-2
- Final score
- Final seconds of first half
- Mead's goal timing
- 86th minute
- Equaliser timing
Why it mattersBayern protested the goal as illegitimate due to the flare, but VAR confirmed it stood, giving City crucial momentum.
AustraliaFowler's Manchester City faces questions over whether controversial goals could invite UEFA scrutiny that affects their competition run.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 d ago
