By TARA ANSON-WALSH, WOMEN'S FOOTBALL REPORTER
Published: 11:53 EDT, 19 October 2025 | Updated: 12:05 EDT, 19 October 2025
Liverpool were dealt an early setback at Anfield as Manchester United opened the scoring just 63 seconds into the match - but the goal was overshadowed by a head injury to Alexis Mac Allister in the build-up.
Bryan Mbeumo gave United the lead inside two minutes, racing onto Amad Diallo’s through ball before finishing calmly past Giorgi Mamardashvili.
However, Liverpool players and staff were left frustrated that play continued after Mac Allister went down following an aerial collision.
The Argentine midfielder appeared to be caught accidentally by Virgil van Dijk’s elbow while challenging alongside Mbeumo, remaining on the ground clutching his head as United broke forward.
Under current guidelines, play can be halted for potential head injuries, but referee Michael Oliver allowed the move to continue because he did not see the incident.
As Mac Allister received treatment, Liverpool manager Arne Slot was seen in discussion with the fourth official, questioning the decision not to stop play.
Liverpool were dealt an early setback at Anfield as Manchester United opened the scoring just 63 seconds into the match – but the goal by a head injury to Alexis Mac Allister in the build-up
Liverpool boss Arne Slot was seen in discussion with the fourth official after play continued
Game should have been stopped for head injury. The always questionable, Michael Oliver not applying the rules correctly. Mac Allister clearly injured, holding his head. A dangerous decision. Not good for PGMOL. What came after irrelevant. #LFC #Anfield #LIVMUN #EPL pic.twitter.com/ueJCNm1X4e
— LFC Photo (@LFCphoto) October 19, 2025
The incident briefly subdued the Anfield crowd, with Liverpool struggling to regain momentum after conceding so early.
Mac Allister was later able to continue following assessment from medical staff, returning to the field wearing protective headgear.
And Liverpool fans were quick to take to social media to fume at the decision.
One fan wrote: 'Game should have been stopped for head injury. The always questionable, Michael Oliver not applying the rules correctly. Mac Allister clearly injured, holding his head. A dangerous decision. Not good for PGMOL. What came after irrelevant.'
Another said: 'Ref "didn't see" the fact Mac Allister had a head injury despite being on the floor holding his head.'