Florian Wirtz goal was 'definitely offside' as Liverpool in VAR controversy vs Fulham

Florian Wirtz's goal in Liverpool's 2-2 draw with Fulham has been shrouded in controversy, with VAR awarding the strike despite replays seemingly showing the German international was offside

Florian Wirtz and his Liverpool teammates celebrate as his goal against Fulham is awarded by VAR(Image: Getty Images)

Liverpool may have benefited from a huge slice of fortune against Fulham after Florian Wirtz’s goal was awarded following a VAR review.

With the Reds 1-0 down at Craven Cottage after Harry Wilson’s first-half opener, Wirtz struck after the break, although the German international’s effort was initially ruled out for offside.

After a lengthy stoppage, the goal was eventually given, with Liverpool almost securing a dramatic win when Cody Gakpo scored in stoppage time, only for Harrison Reed’s incredible late strike to rescue a point for the hosts, and leave the Reds without a win at the start of 2026 - although they did extend their unbeaten run to nine games.

Wirtz’s goal proved controversial though. Although VAR deemed the 22-year-old to have been onside as he received Conor Bradley’s pass, replays seemed to suggest otherwise, with his right foot looking like it had gone beyond the last defender.

Former Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer was certainly convinced as he commentated on the game for BBC Radio 5 Live.

"Wirtz makes the run initially and wants the ball, but (Conor) Bradley continues the run and doesn't lay it off," Schwarzer said immediately after the ball went in. "In the end, it runs to Wirtz, and he finished, but he is definitely offside."

Florian Wirtz celebrates with his Liverpool teammates after his goal is awarded by VAR against Fulham(Image: Getty Images)

As the lengthy VAR review got underway, Schwarzer remained certain, although there were some doubts creeping in as the decision took longer and longer to arrive.

"When the ball does fall to him, Wirtz spins and fires it into that far corner,” Schwarzer commented. “It was a really good finish. Without the technology, it still looked offside, and looking at the graphics, it's so, so tight."

To everyone’s surprise, referee Craig Pawson was eventually instructed to award the goal, leaving Schwarzer more than a little confused.

"Looking at replays of that Liverpool goal, every frame that they stop at it looks offside. It's a strange one,” he summarized.

Even Wirtz himself admitted that he thought he wouldn’t get the goal, although he remained unhappy at Liverpool’s failure to secure victory.

"I was sure it was offside so I didn't even celebrate,” Wirtz told Sky Sports after the game. “I was happy that I scored but I'd rather take the three points.”

Liverpool remains fourth in the Premier League, although it missed a golden opportunity to extend its advantage in the race for the Champions League positions after Manchester United was held to a 1-1 draw at Leeds earlier in the day.

The Reds are back in London on Thursday as they take on league leaders Arsenal, with Arne Slot sweating on the fitness of Hugo Ekitike after he missed Sunday’s game.