Aune Heggebo banned for two matches after deceptive goal in opener

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 21, 2026, 3:45 PM

Last updated Aug 21, 2026

Aune Heggebo banned for two matches after deceptive goal in opener

Summary

Aune Heggebo of West Bromwich Albion has been handed a two-match ban for deceiving a match official during the Championship opener against Norwich City. The incident occurred in the 75th minute when Heggebo's goal, which may have involved a handball, stood despite protests from Norwich. This marks the first charge of its kind in English football under a rule introduced in the 2017-18 season. West Brom is seeking clarification from the Football Association on how players should act in similar situations. Heggebo will miss matches against Burnley and Newcastle United.

Source Links

BBC Sport

Key Details

•Heggebo's goal put West Brom ahead 1-0 in the match.
•The club claims the handball was accidental and seeks clarification on guidelines.
•Heggebo will sit out matches against Burnley and Newcastle.
•Retrospective action for deception had not been utilized until this case.
•Debate has reopened regarding the implementation of VAR in the Championship.

Latest Updates

3:45 PMBBC Sport — What does Heggebo's deception ban mean for football?

What they're saying

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BBC Sport explores the fallout from the decision to ban West Brom striker Aune Heggebo for two matches for "successfully deceiving a match official".
— BBC Sport

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