Chikoya Explains Why Zimbabwe Is Set To Introduce VAR Ahead Of South Africa

Former Orlando Pirates defender Innocent Chikoya has offered an explanation for why Zimbabwe are moving ahead of South Africa in the introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, suggesting that concerns over alleged corruption and match-fixing in Zimbabwean football have accelerated the process.

Zimbabwe are preparing to introduce VAR in domestic football, with the technology expected to make its competitive debut on November 28 during the Chibuku Super Cup final between Hardrock and Highlanders at Chahwanda Stadium in Kwekwe.

The development would make Zimbabwe one of the first countries in Sub-Saharan Africa to introduce the technology in its domestic football competitions.

Speaking about the progress, Chikoya suggested that growing concerns over refereeing standards and allegations of bribery have played a significant role in pushing Zimbabwean football authorities to embrace VAR.

According to the former Warriors international, allegations that some individuals are attempting to influence match outcomes through financial incentives have increased pressure for improvements in officiating.

Chikoya believes the introduction of VAR could help address some of the frustrations surrounding controversial refereeing decisions and improve confidence in the fairness of domestic competitions.

He also questioned the decision to bring referees from Kenya to officiate certain matches in Zimbabwe, arguing that using foreign officials does not necessarily eliminate the possibility of external influence.

Chikoya further pointed to the increasing financial investment in Zimbabwean football, explaining that clubs are now spending more money on players and coaches, consequently raising expectations around the standard of the game.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe’s football association has received support from FIFA and Sakunda Holdings to facilitate the introduction of the technology. Referees have also been undergoing training to meet the necessary requirements.

South Africa, on the other hand, is still working through several challenges before implementing VAR in its domestic competitions.

The South African Football Association (SAFA) has identified referee training, technical infrastructure, broadcasting compatibility and stakeholder coordination as important requirements that must be addressed before a full rollout.

Pending feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com