Pressure is mounting across South African football for the immediate rollout of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology. A series of contentious refereeing decisions during early 2026/27 Betway Premiership fixtures—combined with government friction surrounding implementation delays—has pushed the debate to boiling point.
Four Key Referees’ Decisions Fuelling the Outcry
- The Sihle Nduli Injury Tackle (Orlando Pirates vs. AmaZulu): During a 1-1 draw in Durban, Orlando Pirates midfielder Sihle Nduli suffered a severe torn ligament following a lunging challenge by Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya. Ngwenya was issued a yellow card, but analysts argue the nature of the tackle warranted a straight red—especially after Pirates confirmed Nduli faces at least four months on the sidelines.
- Disallowed Equaliser for AmaZulu (Orlando Pirates vs. AmaZulu): In the same fixture, AmaZulu’s Mlondi Mbanjwa found the back of the net only for the assistant referee to raise the flag for offside. Replays proved inconclusive, leaving Usuthu aggrieved over what they considered a valid goal.
- Zitha Kwinika’s Challenge on Tashreeq Matthews (Kaizer Chiefs vs. Mamelodi Sundowns): During a 1-1 thriller between the giants, Chiefs defender Zitha Kwinika received a yellow card after catching Sundowns forward Tashreeq Matthews with his studs. Former PSL referee Victor Hlungwani weighed in on SABC Sport, stating Kwinika was fortunate to avoid a red card for excessive force.
- On-Field Confusion at Richards Bay (Richards Bay FC vs. Polokwane City): Referee Moreki Lekwape caused widespread confusion after initially signaling a corner kick, then overturning his decision to award a penalty via earpiece communication, before reversing back to a corner. Replays confirmed the ball struck Malebogo Modise on the torso rather than his arm, highlighting the lack of reliable visual review systems for match officials.
Minister Gayton McKenzie Escalates SAFA Delays to FIFA
Beyond the pitch, Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie expressed frustration over delays by the South African Football Association (SAFA). McKenzie confirmed he has formally requested the return of state funds allocated for VAR after giving SAFA a 21-day window. The minister noted he has contacted FIFA directly to address structural roadblocks slowing down VAR’s arrival in the PSL.
