Once again, match officials are in the spotlight following a string of controversial decisions, notably in the Golden Arrows vs. Sundowns clash and the Stellenbosch FC vs. Kaizer Chiefs match.
Coach Miguel Cardoso refrained from pointing fingers at specific referees but emphasized the need for fairness in the game. Speaking to iDiski Times, he expressed:
“I never make it personal with referees because, in the end, a coach has more to lose than to gain by doing so. However, when it comes to the Arrows match, it’s up to you [the media] to defend the integrity of football.”
He further stressed that as the quality of players and coaches improves, so should the standard of refereeing.
“This isn’t just an issue in South Africa; it happens worldwide. Implementing VAR in South Africa would be a crucial step forward. Referees are human, and mistakes are inevitable, but when errors pile up in a single match, it disrupts the game. In our case, it cost us two valuable points—points that could be vital in the title race and our team’s morale.”
HONOURS FOR LUCAS RIBEIRO AND MIGUEL CARDOSO
As expected, Mamelodi Sundowns shone in the Betway Premiership awards for February 2025.
Coach Cardoso claimed the Coach of the Month title after securing 18 out of 21 possible points. Meanwhile, star midfielder Lucas Ribeiro was named Player of the Month and also bagged Goal of the Month for his brilliant solo effort against Orlando Pirates.
The PSL acknowledged Ribeiro’s remarkable achievement, stating:
“In addition to winning Player of the Month, Ribeiro’s breathtaking solo goal in Sundowns’ victory over Orlando Pirates in Tshwane was voted Goal of the Month. This marks his second consecutive award in this category, having also won in January.”
His goal triumphed over Tshegofatso Nyama’s stunning free-kick against Golden Arrows and Shaun Mogaila’s spectacular strike against Chippa United.
