Cardoso Calls For VAR Implementation In PSL Again
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has called for the introduction of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in the PSL following his side’s controversial stalemate with Golden Arrows in the Betway Premiership on Wednesday.
The Brazilians dropped two crucial points in the 1-1 draw. However, Namibian striker Peter Shalulile had the ball in the back of the net, but the goal was chalked off as the goal-poacher was adjudged to be in an offside position – much to the frustration of the Downs mentor.
Convinced the goal should have stood to claim maximum points, Cardoso refused to delve deep into commenting about the officials’ performances in the South African top-flight and demanded an improvement in officiating standards.
“As you know, I don’t like to personalize what mostly happens with referees, I will never do it because in the end I think the coach has more to lose than to win when he personalizes the question [about officiating],” he said.
“I will not personalize because regarding Wednesday [vs Golden Arrows], you [media] are the ones that should speak about your football and defend your football. You are reporters, you have a social impact and that impact on the people who have responsibility for the football.
“It’s up to you to highlight what good or bad has been happening. What I can tell you is that at the same time, the conditions where the football is played, the level of the coaches and the players is increased, so the level of the referees should also be increased.”
The 52-year-old tactician says it’s high time the VAR is implemented in the Betway Premiership to bring about fairness and professionalism in the league as the technology would aid the referees in making sound decisions during the matches.
“The level should be increased in general; it’s not only in South Africa but everywhere in the world. I think it would be very important for VAR to be implemented here in South Africa – it would help the referees because referees are also human beings,” added Cardoso.
“And, normally, they make a mistake in the game, it can happen but when there’s too many mistakes in one game then obviously that’s inconformable. And as I said, it’s up to you to look at the match against Arrows to see what happened.
“Because if it was a normal game then we would have won and that cost us two points that could be very important in the fight for the championship, and it can be very important on the morale of the team.”
The Portuguese continued: “I think all the organizations of football in South Africa must understand what’s important is to defend the football, there must be a clear vision for development. For example, in Europe, Portugal, before the match there’s a meeting between the referees and the officials where they discuss all the organization of the match.”
Masandawana will switch their focus to their Nedbank Cup quarterfinals clash against Sekhukhune United at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday (20:00). Babina Noko will be without Lehlohonolo Seema after the club parted ways with the coach on Thursday evening.
Pic courtesy of Sandile Xakaza/Inja Ka Moya Snaps
