Referees keep missing clear red cards – please can we have VAR?

The sluggish progress towards introducing the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system has recently been highlighted by a series of uncalled-for red cards in the inaugural match of the Premier Soccer League. Two notable incidents involved Pirates and Sundowns player Teboho Mokoena and Orlando Pirates midfielder Sihle Nduli, who both had to be taken off due to tackles that clearly warranted red cards.

Despite the prevalence of the dangerous studs-up, over-the-top tackle, it is appalling that these incidents did not result in immediate ejection of the offenders. Mokoena and Nduli have both been sidelined as a result; Mokoena missed his next two matches for the Orange Sharks and Kaizer Chiefs, while Nduli sustained a lengthy injury to his ankle ligaments and is expected to be absent for around four months.

However, following the commendable recovery of Nduli, he was able to return to the pitch and scored his fifth goal of the season in AmaZulu's 2-0 victory over Siwelele, with the team reporting that he has issued a public apology to Nduli. Despite this, the AmaZulu forward should be serving a two-match ban for his earlier incident.

In contrast, the Referees were justified in ruling out a legitimate goal for AmaZulu due to a non-existent offside call during their 1-1 draw with Pirates. This only reinforces the belief that the South African Premiership desperately needs VAR as soon as possible.

It is crucial to acknowledge that VAR is not flawless; it often results in incorrect decisions being made, as evident in the English Premier League and the 2026 Fifa World Cup finals. However, when implemented effectively, VAR in South Africa can offer much-needed assistance to referees. The South African Football Association has confirmed that they have received the promised funding from the government for the implementation of VAR, and it is now time for them to take swift action.