The standard of officiating in South African football has come under intense scrutiny, with recent controversial decisions raising serious questions about the integrity of the game. While some argue that certain teams benefit more than others, the reality is that inconsistent officiating impacts all clubs, players, and fans.
Questionable decisions this season
Kaizer Chiefs vs Stellenbosch FC
A recent Nedbank Cup quarterfinal clash between Kaizer Chiefs and Stellenbosch FC sparked controversy when a late goal secured Chiefs’ advancement. With the game tied at 1-1 in the 90th minute, Chiefs’ George Matlou appeared to foul Stellenbosch goalkeeper Sage Stephens during a corner kick. Despite the assistant referee flagging the incident, referee Sikhumbuzo Gasa consulted with his colleague before allowing the goal to stand, igniting widespread debate.
Orlando Pirates vs Stellenbosch FC (MTN8 Final)
Stellenbosch FC was again at the centre of controversy during the MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates. A contentious decision allowed Pirates to continue play following a foul, leading to a goal that many felt should have been disallowed.
Kaizer Chiefs vs Mamelodi Sundowns
Kaizer Chiefs themselves have also been on the receiving end of questionable officiating. In a match against Mamelodi Sundowns, Chiefs were denied a late equaliser due to a highly debatable offside call. Similar incidents in other matches have fuelled growing concerns over the standard of refereeing in the PSL.
The case for professional referees
One of the biggest issues in South African football is that referees are not full-time professionals. Unlike European leagues, where match officials dedicate themselves entirely to their craft, many PSL referees juggle other jobs, limiting their ability to train regularly and improve their decision-making skills.
Professionalizing referees would allow them to focus solely on officiating, receive advanced training, and be held accountable for their performances, ultimately leading to more consistent and fair officiating.
Can VAR solve the problem?
The push for VAR in the PSL has been ongoing for years, with many stakeholders calling for its introduction to reduce officiating errors. Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture Gayton McKenzie recently confirmed that VAR will be introduced in April 2025, despite opposition from some club bosses.
McKenzie suggested that certain officials are deliberately trying to block VAR, as they may benefit from questionable refereeing decisions. “If you know you have corrupt referees on your books or bribe referees, why would you want VAR?” he said.
The total cost of implementing VAR in South Africa is estimated at R80 million, with an additional R70,000 required per match. While McKenzie did not specify how much the government would contribute, he assured fans that the funds would be made available and that VAR would become a reality in the PSL.
South Africa is currently lagging behind other African nations such as Morocco, Egypt, and Tunisia, where VAR is already in use. In Europe, leagues like the Premier League, Bundesliga, and Serie A have been using VAR for several years, significantly reducing refereeing errors in crucial moments.
Repeated officiating controversies are damaging the credibility of the PSL. If players and coaches feel that matches are being decided by referee errors rather than skill and tactics, it threatens the integrity of the league.
With VAR scheduled for introduction in April 2025, along with efforts to professionalise referees, South African football could take a crucial step towards fairer competition.
These changes are necessary to restore trust in the game and ensure that results are determined by the players on the pitch, not the officials on the sidelines.
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