On Monday, Neal Maupay scored a controversial goal for Brentford against Manchester City, raising questions about its validity. Despite City’s dominance in previous encounters and a series of impressive saves by Brentford’s goalkeeper, Mark Flekken, it was Maupay who broke the deadlock in the 21st minute.
The goal originated from a goal kick by Flekken, which bypassed the City defense and was converted by Maupay past Ederson. City players protested for offside against Maupay and Ivan Toney.
Maupay was indeed in an offside position when the goal kick was taken, and Toney’s involvement in the play, though not touching the ball, raised further contention.
Sky Sports pundit Seb Hutchinson defended the decision to award the goal, citing the rule that players cannot be offside from a goal kick. Toney’s interaction with the ball, although challenging Ake for possession, did not constitute an offside offense. Maupay’s subsequent run onto the ball was deemed legitimate under the circumstances.
Despite City’s dominance in possession and numerous attempts on goal, Brentford’s resilience paid off, with Phil Foden eventually finding the net for City. Maupay’s goal marked his third consecutive league game with a goal, adding to strikes against Tottenham and Nottingham Forest.
However, Maupay’s celebration during the Tottenham game, mimicking James Maddison’s goal celebration, stirred controversy and was followed by Tottenham’s comeback victory, leaving Maupay in an awkwardposition.
