Former South African referee Victor Hlungwani has weighed in on the controversial Soweto Derby goal involving Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, offering his interpretation of the incident under FIFA's Laws of the Game.

The debate surrounding the goal has attracted attention from football supporters, with questions raised about whether the attacking player was in an offside position when the ball was played.

However, Hlungwani believes the goal was correctly allowed, pointing to the positioning of Kaizer Chiefs defender Zitha Kwinika as a key factor in the decision.

According to the former referee, Kwinika's position meant that Pirates attacker Oswin Appollis was not in an offside position. His explanation suggests that the defender played a crucial role in determining whether the attacking move was legal.

Hlungwani maintained that the officials were right to allow the goal because the incident was consistent with the requirements of the international rules governing offside decisions.

"We have Kwinika there putting Appollis onside. So this goal was scored in line with the FIFA laws of the game. A goal should have been allowed," the former referee concluded.

His assessment provides another perspective on an incident that has generated discussion among supporters of both Soweto rivals. Decisions involving offside positions are often closely examined, particularly in high-profile matches where a single goal can have a major influence on the outcome.

The positioning of defenders and attackers at the exact moment the ball is played remains central to determining whether an offside offence has occurred. A player can appear ahead of the defensive line but still be onside if an opponent is keeping them in play.

Hlungwani's comments are therefore likely to add further discussion to the controversy, especially among fans who have questioned the decision.

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