SAFA Reveals Stance On Cardoso Ref Allegations?

(Photo by Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images)

SAFA have revealed their stance after Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso made allegations against “certain teams visiting referees on the morning of matches”.

Cardoso shocked the media and the country a week ago, in his Nedbank Cup round of 32 post match press conference, following their 2-1 win over Motsepe Foundation Championship side Gomora United.

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The Portuguese coach alleged that he has seen pictures of “certain teams” visiting referees in the morning of matches, casting doubt into the integrity of match officials.

The 53-year-old coach was asked what improvements can be made to bridge the gap between the lower divisions and the Betway Premiership but his long response extended to him making serious allegations about referees being close to “certain teams”.

“If we start introducing VAR in matches, things will improve because there will be no suspicious activities or individuals. Here in South Africa, it becomes very interesting when officials from certain teams visit referees on the morning of the matches – look out for that, because I saw a photo today (Sunday 4 February),” Cardoso said.

“It’s important that we look out for that. It’s the first time I have seen officials from one team visiting the referee from that game at night. That happened recently – very recently, maybe yesterday,” the former Esperance coach said.

Soccer Laduma contacted SAFA Head of Referees Abdul Ebrahim, on what he makes of the allegations made by Cardoso that potentially damages the reputation of match officials in the country.

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“As much as I understand the pressures that come with certain jobs, if you allow the pressure to alter your personality and perspective, the quality of your output will eventually reflect your internal chaos rather than your professional capability,” Ebrahim said in response to the Siya crew.

“I have no comment regarding these or any other negative statements made about match officials. Unless we follow a strict code of ethics, personal or professional, we compromise our professional standing,” Ebrahim added.