Chikoya Explains Why Zimbabwe Is Ahead Of South Africa In VAR Implementation

Former Orlando Pirates defender Innocent Chikoya has offered his perspective on why Zimbabwe appears to be moving ahead of South Africa in introducing Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, with the system expected to make its debut in the neighbouring country later this month.

The development has attracted attention within African football, particularly because South Africa has one of the continent’s most established domestic leagues and has previously been associated with discussions about improving officiating standards.

VAR is designed to assist match officials in reviewing major decisions involving goals, penalties, direct red cards and cases of mistaken identity. The technology allows referees to reconsider important incidents using video footage, with the aim of reducing significant errors during matches.

Zimbabwe’s planned introduction of the system represents an important development for its football administration. Its arrival is expected to bring additional attention to the country’s efforts to modernise match officiating and improve the overall management of domestic competitions.

Chikoya believes there are reasons Zimbabwe has made progress towards implementing the technology while South Africa is yet to introduce it. His comments have reopened discussions about the preparations, financial commitments and administrative decisions required to bring VAR into a country’s football competitions.

Introducing the system involves more than installing video equipment. Football authorities must also ensure that stadiums have the necessary infrastructure, officials receive specialised training and the technology can operate consistently during matches.

South African football supporters have continued to debate the need for VAR, particularly following controversial refereeing decisions in domestic competitions. Its eventual introduction could change how important incidents are reviewed and handled.

However, Zimbabwe’s planned rollout will provide an opportunity to assess how the technology performs in its football environment.

Chikoya’s observations have therefore placed fresh focus on the differences in preparation between the two neighbouring football nations.

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