The recent MTN8 quarterfinal match between Orlando Pirates and SuperSport United on Saturday, 03 August 2024, reignited the debate over the introduction of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system in South African football. Referee Abongile Tom’s decisions during the match, which saw Orlando Pirates win 3-1 after extra time, have been widely criticized, with several calls being deemed controversial and potentially game-changing.
Abongile Tom Refereeing Renews Calls for VAR in SA Football
This latest incident has added fuel to the ongoing debate about the necessity of VAR in South African football. Proponents argue that VAR can help eliminate human error and ensure fairer outcomes, ultimately enhancing the integrity of the sport. They point to successful implementations in other leagues as evidence of VAR’s effectiveness in improving officiating accuracy.
Ongoing Talks and Challenges
Discussions between the South African Football Association (SAFA) and the Premier Soccer League (PSL) regarding VAR have been ongoing for some time. However, challenges remain, including the significant financial investment required for technology, infrastructure, and training. Concerns about potential delays to the game due to VAR reviews have also been raised.
Positive Developments
Despite these challenges, there have been positive developments. SAFA’s head of referees, Abdul Ebrahim, has stated that plans are underway to introduce VAR in the DStv Premiership as early as the 2024/25 season. This suggests a growing recognition of the need for VAR to improve the standard of officiating in South Africa.
Impact of the Orlando Pirates vs. SuperSport United Match
The controversial officiating in this high-profile match has served as a catalyst for renewed calls for VAR. The incident has highlighted the potential consequences of human error in refereeing and the need for a system that can provide a safety net for officials and ensure fair play.
The Way Forward
While the implementation of VAR may not be immediate, the recent controversy has undoubtedly pushed the issue to the forefront of discussions. The pressure on SAFA and the PSL to accelerate their plans for VAR is mounting, and the hope is that this latest incident will serve as a turning point in the journey towards implementing this technology in South African football.
Related article: Pirates vs Supersport: Pirates Thrashes Supersport in MTN8 Quarterfinal
