“We were robbed” – Da Cruz’s furious verdict – how referee decisions changed the Soweto Derby result

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz launched a stinging attack on referee Luxolo Badi after his side’s 2–1 Soweto Derby defeat to Orlando Pirates, claiming the Buccaneers effectively had an extra man on the pitch.

Speaking after goals from Yanela Mbuthuma and Tshepang Moremi sealed victory for Pirates — with Pule Mmodi scoring Chiefs’ equaliser — Da Cruz insisted two key decisions went against his team. “Pirates played with 12 men, not 11,” he told reporters. “The first goal was offside, and a Pirates player should have received a second yellow card and been sent off. Under those circumstances, we should have been playing against 10 men, not 11.”

The French tactician acknowledged his side had faded after a bright opening. “We should have finished the game in the first half, but we lacked the cutting edge. In the second half we were less dangerous, and in the final 20 minutes we were visibly tired.”

Da Cruz repeated his grievance, leaving no doubt where he felt the contest was decided. “We were not facing 11 opponents today. That is the reality of what happened.” The defeat leaves Chiefs trailing Pirates at the top of the Betway Premiership, with the club’s frustration over the officiating adding to the sense of disappointment.

Da Cruz Critical Of Derby Referee

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