Ex-PSL Referee Delivers Verdict on Badi’s Controversial Soweto Derby Calls

The debate surrounding the officiating in Saturday’s Soweto Derby continues to dominate South African football discussions after Orlando Pirates secured a 2-1 victory over Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium.

Former Premier Soccer League (PSL) referee Zolile Mthetho has weighed in on the controversial decisions involving referee Luxolo Badi, following questions raised about the standard of officiating during one of the biggest fixtures on the South African football calendar.

The highly anticipated Betway Premiership encounter delivered plenty of drama, with both teams producing moments that kept supporters on the edge of their seats. However, the result has been overshadowed by arguments about key decisions that could have influenced the outcome.

Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz was particularly unhappy with aspects of the officiating, suggesting that Pirates' opening goal should have been ruled out for offside. He also questioned whether a Pirates player should have received a second yellow card.

Pirates eventually walked away with all three points, extending their impressive run of form and strengthening their position in the league title race.

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The major talking point was Yanela Mbuthuma's opening goal, which Chiefs believed should have been disallowed for offside. The incident has generated considerable discussion among supporters, with questions being raised about whether the officials made the correct call.

Mthetho's assessment is particularly relevant because refereeing decisions can significantly influence high-pressure matches. However, without a verified report containing his specific comments, it would be premature to claim that he agreed with Chiefs or defended Badi's decision.

Pirates took the lead in the 24th minute when Mbuthuma's effort deflected off Chiefs defender Thabo Moloisane and found the back of the net. Chiefs responded through Pule Mmodi, who capitalised on a mistake by Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine to restore parity before half-time.

The decisive moment arrived in the second half when Tshepang Moremi finished a move created by Thapelo Mokobodi to give Pirates a 2-1 advantage. The Buccaneers maintained their lead to secure an important victory in front of a sold-out FNB Stadium.

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Da Cruz also questioned whether a Pirates player should have received a second yellow card, arguing that the decision could have changed the balance of the contest.

Despite his frustration, the Chiefs coach acknowledged that his side failed to convert its first-half opportunities into goals. He believed Amakhosi could have established a commanding advantage before the break.

For Pirates, the result represented another important step in their campaign, while Chiefs were left to reflect on a defeat that ended their unbeaten league start.

As the debate continues, an authoritative assessment of the disputed incidents would help supporters distinguish between understandable frustration and decisions that were genuinely incorrect under the Laws of the Game.

Note: The article above is based on the verified match details and Da Cruz's public comments. I could not independently verify Mthetho's specific verdict, so I have avoided attributing an unconfirmed opinion to him.

Source https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2117331107800584602?a=bTQpPDzSQuVJhycouw0&s=19