Refereeing blunder revives VAR calls in South Africa

A controversial refereeing decision during the opening weekend of South Africa's top-flight football league has reignited calls for the introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology. The incident occurred on Sunday, August 2, 2026, during a Betway Premiership match where Polokwane City defeated Richards Bay 2-1 at the Umhlathuze Sports Complex.

In the second half, with Polokwane City leading, Richards Bay players appealed for a penalty, claiming the ball struck a defender's hand. The referee initially awarded a corner kick. After consulting with an assistant referee, he then changed his decision to a penalty, only to reverse himself again moments later and reinstate the corner. Subsequent television replays indicated the ball had struck the body of Polokwane City substitute defender Malebogo Modise, not his arm, suggesting the final decision was likely correct but arrived at through a confused and public process.

The high-profile blunder immediately drew criticism and fresh demands for technological aid. SuperSport TV analyst and former women's football coach Simphiwe "Shorty" Dludlu stated directly, "VAR must come to South Africa now." Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie...