Former Premier Soccer League referee Victor Hlungwani has sparked fresh controversy surrounding the recent Soweto Derby after identifying two major refereeing mistakes made during Orlando Pirates' 2-1 victory over Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on Saturday.

The highly anticipated encounter has continued to generate debate among football supporters, particularly over the decisions made by referee Luxolo Badi and his assistants. Although Pirates secured all three points, questions about the officials' performance have overshadowed parts of the match.

Hlungwani reviewed two controversial incidents from the encounter and concluded that the match officials made incorrect decisions on both occasions.

The first incident involved Orlando Pirates' opening goal, scored by Yanela Mbuthuma in the 24th minute. The former referee examined the moment Thapelo Mokobodi played the ball towards Mbuthuma and concluded that the Pirates striker was in an offside position.

Speaking during his analysis on Soccerzone, Hlungwani insisted that the goal should not have stood, arguing that the assistant referee failed to identify the infringement.

His assessment is likely to frustrate Kaizer Chiefs supporters, especially considering that the goal gave their bitter rivals an important advantage in the derby.

However, Hlungwani also disagreed with another decision that went against Pirates towards the closing stages of the match.

Orlando Pirates winger Oswin Appollis thought he had scored, but his effort was ruled out after the assistant referee raised the offside flag. After reviewing the incident, Hlungwani argued that Kaizer Chiefs defender Zitha Kwinika had played Appollis onside.

He maintained that the goal should have been allowed under FIFA's Laws of the Game, describing the assistant referee's decision as incorrect.

Meanwhile, Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz had already expressed frustration over the officiating, particularly Mbuthuma's opening goal, which he believed should have been disallowed.

Despite the controversy, Pirates walked away with the victory through goals from Mbuthuma and Tshepang Moremi, while Pule Mmodi scored for Amakhosi.

Hlungwani's assessment has added another dimension to the growing debate, with supporters of both clubs continuing to question the officiating during one of South African football's biggest fixtures.

Source:

https://x.com/iDiskiTimes/status/2117519811433382170