VAR would protect referees, says Mamelodi Sundowns boss Miguel Cardoso

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso says the introduction of video assistant referees (VAR) would help protect officials and improve the standard of South African football.

The Portuguese coach was speaking after Sundowns beat Golden Arrows 3-2 in the MTN8 semi-finals on Sunday. The match generated considerable debate, particularly after a goal for Sundowns that appeared legitimate was ruled out.

Cardoso has recently voiced his frustration at decisions he believes have gone against his side. However, he said referees should not be judged too harshly for making mistakes and argued that VAR should be used to correct them.

“I think that mistakes can happen for everybody, obviously, and I think that Minister McKenzie finally agrees with me, that surely VAR should correct the mistakes,” Cardoso told the media.

“We should protect the referees with establishing VAR, it’s simple as that.

The debate over officiating has continued in South African football, with Cardoso saying the technology would not only benefit Mamelodi Sundowns. He acknowledged that decisions could also have gone against his team if VAR had already been available this season.

The coach referred to an incident involving one of his own players, saying a tackle could have resulted in a red card had the incident been reviewed.

“And look, there were moments already this season that probably VAR would have penalised myself and my team because there was, for example, I remember one, it was an unfortunate action, but it was an action of a tackle from one player of mine that should have been given a red card,” he added.

Cardoso also argued that opponents had been involved in incidents that might have warranted dismissals. He specifically pointed to Polokwane City’s match, which was the opening fixture of the MTN8.

“But there were many other opponents that should have been given a red card. I just want you to remember Polokwane City’s match as the first fixture of this competition.

The Sundowns manager said the wider issue should be considered with balance rather than focusing solely on individual errors by officials. He called for better conditions to enable referees, players and coaches to perform in the interests of the sport.

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“So, let’s not judge the people that have a whistle in their hands, because sometimes we also need to protect them.

“Let’s just create conditions so that we all can work as best as possible in the best interest of the game, of the football and of South Africa. That’s the only thing I have to say.”

Cardoso’s comments came as the discussion around refereeing and VAR remained prominent following Sundowns’ semi-final victory over Golden Arrows.

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