Soweto Derby Robbery? Furious Chiefs Fans Demand Ban for Ref Luxolo Badi

Luxolo Badi Under Fire Again After Kaizer Chiefs’ Soweto Derby Defeat As Refereeing Controversy Resurfaces

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA — 2 NOVEMBER 2026

South African football referee Luxolo Badi has once again found himself in the spotlight following the latest Soweto Derby between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, with renewed discussions surrounding his previous controversial decisions involving Amakhosi.

Badi’s name has become a talking point among sections of the Kaizer Chiefs fanbase, particularly after the latest derby encounter added another chapter to the ongoing debate about refereeing decisions involving the Soweto giants.

The highly anticipated clash between Chiefs and Pirates took place at FNB Stadium on Saturday, 31 October 2026, with the Buccaneers walking away with a 2-1 victory.

Orlando Pirates secured all three points through goals from Yanela Mbuthuma and Tshepang Moremi, while Pule Mmodi scored the consolation goal for Amakhosi.

The result was disappointing for Chiefs supporters, who had hoped their team would use the derby as an opportunity to make a statement against their biggest rivals.

However, the conversation surrounding the match has extended beyond the result, with refereeing decisions once again attracting attention.

A controversial derby and renewed criticism

Following the match, Da Cruz openly questioned Badi’s handling of the encounter, arguing that two important decisions went against his team.

The Chiefs coach claimed that Mbuthuma’s opening goal should have been ruled out for offside. He also believed a Pirates player deserved a second yellow card, which would have resulted in a dismissal.

“Pirates play as 12 and not 11,” Da Cruz complained after the match. <Cite refs={[“turn737117search0″,”turn737117search1”]}/>

His comments have reignited discussions about Badi’s refereeing and the pressure officials face when handling matches of such magnitude.

Chiefs’ frustration goes beyond the referee

Despite his criticism, Da Cruz also admitted that his players were responsible for failing to take their opportunities in the first half.

He believed Chiefs should have entered the halftime break with a two- or three-goal advantage after creating several promising chances.

The defeat leaves Amakhosi with plenty to consider as they attempt to recover their form in the Betway Premiership.

According to reports, Chiefs remain fifth on the league standings with 14 points from nine matches, while Pirates moved to the top of the table with 25 points. <Cite refs={[“turn737117search0″,”turn737117search5”]}/>

For Badi, the latest controversy places his performance under renewed scrutiny.

However, it is important to distinguish between a coach’s allegations and officially established refereeing errors. The disputed decisions have not, based on the available reports, been formally declared incorrect by the PSL.

One thing is certain: the Soweto Derby defeat has reopened an uncomfortable conversation for Kaizer Chiefs, and the debate surrounding Luxolo Badi is unlikely to disappear anytime soon.

Source https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2117148382275735911

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