Distinguish an alert from a playback fault
If the screen moves to another sporting event after you select a notification, note the selection before assuming the original broadcast ended unexpectedly. A related-event alert is an invitation to change what you are watching. This is different from a stream cutting out without a viewer action.
Read the documented alert behaviour
HBO Max’s UK playback guide says its Alert control can enable or disable notifications about key moments in related sports events, with a goal given as an example. Selecting the alert starts watching the other event. A viewer who wants uninterrupted coverage of the original fixture should therefore inspect this preference and avoid selecting an alert merely to dismiss it.
Apply it during simultaneous fixtures
For example, someone following one match may be interested in another result but still want to remain with the first broadcast. Treat the alert as a navigation choice and read the event name before selecting it. If avoiding results matters, review alerts before the session rather than waiting until a goal notification appears. A preference in this player does not control messages from every other sports app.
Recover the intended event deliberately
If you switched by accident, return through the app’s event navigation and identify the original fixture. Check whether you rejoined its live coverage or a separate replay rather than assuming the viewing position was retained. For support, state the selected alert and resulting event. This article explains published HBO Max controls and makes no claim that an event is available through another service or subscription.
Questions, answered
Does choosing the alert only dismiss it?
HBO Max says selecting a key-moment alert starts watching the related event.