The fallout from the high-stakes 1-1 draw between Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns has shifted from the scoreboard to the rulebook. Former PSL referee Victor “The Principal” Hlungwani has come out swinging against the officiating, claiming that Amakhosi midfielder Siphesihle Ndlovu was “lucky to stay on the pitch” after a series of controversial incidents.
Ndlovu’s aggressive performance has sparked heated debate, particularly following a reckless challenge that ended Keanu Cupido’s afternoon and, potentially, his season.
“Serious Foul Play”: Breaking Down the Incidents
Speaking on Soccerzone, Hlungwani reviewed the footage and expressed disbelief at the leniency shown by match official Luxolo Badi. He highlighted three specific moments where he believes the referee lost control of the “Ndlovu Show”:
1. The Challenge on Keanu Cupido The most severe incident saw Ndlovu’s knee make forceful contact with the ribs of Sundowns defender Keanu Cupido. The impact was so severe that Cupido had to be stretchered off.
- Hlungwani’s Verdict: “This challenge endangered the safety of an opponent… You can clearly see the knee landing on the ribs. It should have been a straight red for serious foul play, but the referee only issued a yellow.”
2. The Elbow on Khuliso Mudau Shortly after the first incident, Ndlovu was involved in a physical altercation with Mudau, where an elbow appeared to be used.
- Hlungwani’s Verdict: “He could have received a second yellow card there as well, but the referee missed that one too.”
3. The “Strangle” on Tashreeq Matthews In a third heated moment, Ndlovu was seen in a physical tangle with Matthews that Hlungwani described as “reckless.”
- Hlungwani’s Verdict: “He’s strangling another player in a reckless manner. He should’ve been sent off for all these challenges, but he got away with murder. This is not right!”
A Costly Escape?
While Ndlovu remained on the field to help Chiefs secure a vital point, the long-term consequences are felt elsewhere. Mamelodi Sundowns are now dealing with the loss of Cupido to injury during a critical stage of the season, while questions regarding the consistency of PSL officiating continue to mount.
Hlungwani’s critique adds to the growing pressure on the league’s refereeing standards, especially in high-profile matches where “excessive force and brutality” are concerned.
