By Sello Masilo
The recent 2-1 victory by Mamelodi Sundowns over Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium has sparked significant debate over the quality of officiating in the Premier Soccer League (PSL). Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture Gayton McKenzie is leading the calls for the immediate introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in the PSL, following a series of contentious refereeing decisions during the match.
McKenzie’s demand for VAR comes after a controversial moment in the game, where Kaizer Chiefs’ potential equalizing goal was disallowed by the match official, adding to the growing frustration among fans and stakeholders. “All football-loving fans know that the time for VAR has arrived in South African football. We need VAR, and we need it now,” McKenzie posted on social media, promising to meet with the South African Football Association (SAFA) and the PSL to address the matter urgently.
The controversy arose when Iqraam Rayners scored for Sundowns, amidst allegations of offside play, and later, Kaizer Chiefs were denied a goal after a dubious foul call against Mosa Lebusa. This reignited concerns about inconsistent officiating, prompting McKenzie to push for reforms that could bring more transparency and fairness to PSL matches.
The call for VAR has gained support from several high-profile figures, including Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi, who expressed surprise at South Africa’s lag in implementing the technology. “I’m surprised in South Africa we don’t work with VAR. In Morocco, Tunisia, and North Africa, it’s impossible to play without it,” Nabi said after the game.
ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula and popular sports broadcaster Robert Marawa also voiced their discontent on social media. Mbalula tweeted that the officiating was “not good at all,” while Marawa highlighted the need for professional refereeing standards in South Africa.
With the pressure mounting, McKenzie has committed to addressing these concerns with SAFA and the PSL leadership, marking what could be a pivotal moment for the introduction of VAR in South African football.
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