As video assistant referee (VAR) continues to reshape football, does it enhance the sport’s integrity, or does it diminish its thrilling spontaneity?
Envision a football match where every crucial moment is subjected to intense scrutiny, halting the game’s natural rhythm. The exhilaration of spontaneous action is replaced by the tedium of awaiting a referee’s verdict, eyes glued to a monitor. This is the current state of football, shaped by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR).
VAR was implemented to rectify clear errors and minimize human fallibility in crucial game-changing moments. The concept was straightforward: enhance fairness. However, the outcome has been more complex. While VAR has undeniably corrected some blatant mistakes, it has also generated fresh controversies and arguably increased frustration.
In essence, football is a straightforward game: two teams compete to score more goals. However, what truly excites fans is the game’s unpredictability, the unexpected moments, and even its imperfections. Before VAR, referees made instant calls, and while they sometimes got it wrong, these mistakes were part of the game’s character. We’d debate them passionately, but we accepted them as part of football’s human nature.
With the new Premier League season kicking off this evening, it is a good time to revisit a controversial moment from 2021 that shows how tricky VAR can be. Sky Sports reports that, just 14 minutes into the match between Chelsea and Manchester United, Callum Hudson-Odoi appeared to handle the ball in Chelsea’s penalty area. VAR advised the referee to review the play on the pitch side monitor. After watching the footage, he decided not to award a penalty. This incident shows how VAR, intended to clarify decisions, can often cause more confusion by turning simple plays into lengthy disputes.
According to The Athletic, a dramatic example of fan backlash against VAR unfolded in Norway. A top-tier match between Rosenborg and Lillestrom was abandoned after supporters, enraged by VAR, bombarded the pitch with tennis balls and fishcakes. The game was repeatedly halted, forcing players off the field twice, before being called off after just 32 minutes. This extreme protest reflects widespread fan discontent towards VAR in Norway since its introduction last year.
South Africa is increasingly moving towards embracing VAR, particularly after controversial decisions like those in MTN 8 Cup opener between Orlando Pirates and SuperSport United sparked debate. Both South African Football Association (SAFA) and the Premier Soccer League (PSL) are eager to introduce VAR to local leagues, reports SABC Sport. The recent R900 million sponsorship deal with Betway could provide the necessary financial support. This could revolutionize South African football by introducing a new level of fairness.
It’s essential to remember that football isn’t solely about perfection. The game’s true essence lies in the thrill, the unexpected, and the emotional rollercoaster it induces. While VAR is a permanent fixture, its successful integration depends on preserving what makes football extraordinary. Let’s strive for fairness without sacrificing the heart and soul of the game.
FEATURED IMAGE: Rivaldo Jantjies, 2024 Wits Vuvuzela Journalist. Photo: File/Leon Sadiki
Against all odds, a talented young footballer scores a deal with Premier Soccer League (PSL) club.
In a remarkable tale of resilience, Sifiso Mazibuko, a 20-year-old student from Wits University has signed a contract with Chippa United FC.
This significant milestone signifies the start of Mazibuko’s professional football journey, a dream brought to life by unwavering determination and grit. “I feel blessed to be granted this opportunity, to kickstart my career and represent this big team,” says Mazibuko.
Mazibuko’s eyes shone with pride and determination as he signed with the Chilli Boys earlier this month. His journey is not only a personal victory, but also emphasizes the excellence of the SuperSport United DSTV Diski Challenge (DDC) academy in nurturing professional athletes.
Despite the undeniable appeal of professional football, Mazibuko is dedicated to his education. Juggling his academic responsibilities with his sporting endeavors has been both challenging and fulfilling. He attributes his ability to manage this demanding period to the strong support system around him.
“Wits University welcomed me with open arms; it felt like home even before I started,” Mazibuko recalls. “Balancing my studies in the first year was challenging, but after the Varsity Cup, I found a way to manage both successfully.”
Hailing from Kwa-Zulu Natal, his affection for the beautiful game was clear from a young age according to his father, Sibusiso Mazibuko. “You deserve it my son, go out and show the world what you can offer on the field,” says Sibusiso. Football was more than just a sport for him; it became an all-encompassing obsession.
Sifiso Mazibuko in action for Wits University. Photo: Supplied/Lindy Makhanyile
While playing for the SuperSport United DDC team, the winger’s knack for coordinating attacks, generating scoring chances, and motivating his teammates set him apart, according to Roscoe Krieling, Mazibuko’s coach at SuperSport DDC.
Guided by seasoned coaches and supported by equally skilled peers, he refined his abilities and grew into a versatile footballer. His outstanding skills and leadership quickly drew the attention of the Chilli Boys scouts.
“He’s got real natural potential,” says Roscoe Krieling, Mazibuko’s coach at SuperSport DDC. “Good luck to him; it’s always positive when a player moves on and gets the opportunity to perform and showcase their abilities at the highest level.”
With his move to the PSL, Mazibuko is poised to make waves in South African football.
His ultimate goal is to play professional football in Europe, a dream that will not only bring pride to his family, but also inspire future generations to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness through hard work and determination.
FEATURED IMAGE: Sifiso Mazibuko signs for Chippa United FC. Photo: Supplied/Chippa United FC.
While digital news thrives online, a devoted newspaper vendor from KZN remains a steadfast presence at a Wits bustling intersection, hoping to convince young and old to grab print copies.
In the centre of Johannesburg, at the busy intersection of Yale and Empire Road near Wits University, Phumzile Msani ,stands as a symbol of a bygone era.
Phumzile Msani engaging with a potential client at the intersection of Yale and Empire Road. Photo: Rivaldo Jantjies
As a devoted newspaper vendor, despite the drastic change in the print media landscape, Msani has continued to sell printed news for more than thirty years.
Hailing from KwaZulu-Natal, Msani stepped out of her comfort zone to seek employment in Johannesburg. Without fully completing her education, she could not secure a formal job, leading her to sell newspapers. The money she earned was sent back home to support her extended family. The 57-year-old and her family still rely on the ever dwindling income from her daily hustle.
From Monday to Friday, between 9am and 5pm, she sells newspapers on the busy intersection. Her selection includes The Star, The Citizen, Business Day, and Mail and Guardian.
The latest quarterly figures from the Audit Bureau of Circulations of South Africa (ABC) show a further decline in circulation figures. The Star, which used to be one of Msani’s bestsellers has seen a 35% decrease in circulation in the last year alone, less than 6000 paid copies in circulation weekly.
However, Msani’s commitment goes beyond her sales of newspapers, she is a familiar face and voice to regular passersby, making sure to greet passersby with a welcoming grin and willingness to chat.
Msani said the Covid-19 pandemic severely hurt her sales. Despite more individuals using online news sources, sales have not returned to their pre-lockdown level. She told Wits Vuvuzela, “before Covid-19, I used to sell 90 copies every single day, now I only sell up to nine copies a day.”
Price increases have also played a role in decreased sales. For instance, City Press, which was priced at R20 in December 2019, now stands at R29, while Beeld, which was R12.50, has risen to R18.50. Similarly, Die Burger has seen an increase from R13.60 to R16, and Daily Sun’s price has more than doubled from R4.20 to R8 during the same period.
Msani is a monument to the lasting value of print media in an age when digital news is taking over the world. Her devotion, and steady presence beg the question of whether print and digital journalism can coexist, or will screen convenience eventually make the sound of newspapers rustling obsolete?
FEATURED IMAGE: Selection of newspapers that Phumzile Msani sells. Photo: Rivaldo Jantjies
On a chilly evening, Hurricanes FC sank Student Digz FC in thrilling 3-0 victory.
On Thursday, May 16, 2024, Hurricanes FC edged closer to the top of the Premier League by putting three goals past Student Digz FC at Wits Sturrock Park Stadium.
In a tense atmosphere, the first half was openly contested as both sides played free-flowing football. However, the home side proved why they were worthy title contenders, while the visitors were toothless in front of the goal. Both teams were positive in their approach, but Hurricanes’ brilliant use of possession gave them the lead at halftime, as Student Digz FC struggled to find the net.
During the second half, the away side’s patience wore thin as they failed to convert every chance they created. Nothing seemed to work for Student Digz FC on the night. The home side’s defensive stability enabled them to put together cohesive passes, resulting in a second goal. The drop in spirit among the visitors was evident, allowing Hurricanes FC to punish them further by scoring another goal.
The match was a fiery battle with tackles flying in from both ends. These tensions spilled over to the touchline as angry spectators from both teams clashed. The fans had to be separated by the players and technical teams of each side.
Hurricanes FC players celebrating, after scoring a goal. Photo: Rivaldo Jantjies
Speaking to Wits Vuvuzela, Power Mngomezulu, the head coach of Student Digz FC, commented on his team’s performance, “I think the gents played so well, just that we were so unlucky.” Mngomezulu emphasized that if his team had converted their chances, they would have won the match. He believes his team was playing well and said that they are planning to come back stronger.
Heading into the match with confidence after winning their last two games, the home side exuded high spirits. They sent a clear message to their rivals by delivering a commanding performance.
Irvin Slwane, the head coach of Hurricanes FC, said he is: “So proud of our win, it was a very tough game.” Slwane emphasized that the away side is a formidable team, noting the extensive preparation required ahead of the match. He also mentioned that his side draws inspiration from the away team.
In the aftermath of the match, Hurricanes FC held onto their third position in the Premier League of the Wits Internal Football league, with a game in hand over the two teams above them. Student Digz remained at the top but now shares points with the two teams below them.
FEATURED IMAGE: Hurricanes FC preparing to take a free-kick. Photo: Rivaldo Jantjies
The Cheese boys suffered their second straight loss to Zulu Society FC in an exciting 4-3 thriller.
Wits Junction FC’s hopes of securing a win at halftime were crushed as Zulu Society FC dominated, scoring four goals at Wits Sturrock Park Stadium on Monday, May 6th.
The first half was tightly contested with little to separate the two teams, but what followed in the second half turned into a nightmare for Wits Junction FC. Initially, it appeared the match might end in a stalemate, but the Cheese boys’ shaky defense became evident. Their defense crumbled, allowing Zulu Society FC to effortlessly navigate through their midfield, a sight that was shocking to see.
As the second half unfolded, Zulu Society FC further gained momentum, applying consistent pressure on their opposition. The team executed their coach’s attacking game plan, resulting in a relentless assault. Though Wits Junction FC managed to equalise 2-2, their lack of organisation proved costly as Zulu Society FC scored two more goals to secure victory. The Cheese boys netted a consolation goal at around 80 minutes, but it wasn’t enough to alter the outcome.
Zulu Society FC player dribbling past Wits Junction FC players. Photo: Rivaldo Jantjies
The continuous display of entertaining football thrilled the crowd, who enthusiastically celebrated each goal with the players. The game was a goal extravaganza – everything that a football fanatic asks for.
Wandile Zulu, the coach of Zulu Society FC, spoke about his team’s performance during the match, he told Wits Vuvuzela, “It’s our first win, it’s a good win, as you can see people are happy.” Zulu reiterated his hope that his team will build on this triumph going forward. He stressed the importance of making slight improvements in terms of compactness to ensure future success.
Entering the match after losing four goals in their previous game, Wits Junction FC’s performance on Monday underscored a clear lack of defensive cohesion, resulting in eight goals conceded in their last two matches.
Khethani Mathikhi, the coach of Wits Junction FC, commented on his team’s performance during the match, he said: “We conceded quite a few silly goals that could’ve been avoided.” However, Mathikhi believes they can recover from this setback, especially considering the absence of some key players. He emphasized that strengthening their defense could lead to victory.
Following the match result, the Cheese boys have dropped to fourth place in the first division of the Wits Internal Football League, whereas Zulu Society FC has ascended to the tenth position.
FEATURED IMAGE: Wits Junction FC coach instructing his players during half-time. Photo: Rivaldo Jantjies
The season ends with a disheartening loss for FNB Wits, but there is hope for the future thanks to the rise of young talent.
A gruelling 12-24 season-ending loss to the FNB Shimlas on April 8, 2024, at Wits Rugby Stadium saw the Wits side effectively nudged out of the contest with a fifth place finish.
Tension was high throughout the first few exchanges as both teams tried avoiding mistakes on a wet field. Even though the hosts had the ball early on, they frequently made handling errors, which cost them potential points.
The visitors were clearly a real danger to breach the Wits defense once they found their rhythm. Following a period of continuous pressure, the visitors scored first, with hooker Liyema Mgwigwi converting from close range.
Flyhalf Ethan Wentzel slotted the conversion, putting Shimlas up 7-0. That lead was increased when winger Siviwe Zondani capped off a beautiful team play by leaping over for a try beneath the posts.
Wentzel continued his immaculate kicking, adding the conversion to give the visitors a dominating 14-0 halftime score.
Despite the halftime deficit, Wits fans remained upbeat, their chants ringing across the whole stadium. ”I’m not going to say we lost already, we can still do it,” Avela Sisilana, told Wits Vuvuzela. Mmambowethu Katsande said, “One thing that’s been true about the boys is that we [are] the comeback kings.”
UFS doubled their lead after the break with a goal from fullback Michael Annies. However, Wits responded swiftly, as Drew Bennet crossed the line following a superb ball from outside center Liyema Matyolweni. Shimlas’ Gideon Nel scored the important bonus-point try, but his conversion attempt bounced off the upright, leaving the score at 19-7.
In a last-ditch effort, Wits flanker Kelvin Kanenungo charged over for a try. However, it was too little, too late, as the conversion attempt went wide, ending the match 24-12 in Shimlas’ favor.
Hugo van As, the head coach, has voiced his dissatisfaction with how the season has unfolded.
“Disappointed yes but obviously looking forward to the future, at one stage we had eight youngsters in our environment, which obviously, if we can keep them on board, would be good for the future,” he told Wits Vuvuzela.
Locals unite, in the north of the city centre, in JHB, to raise their voices to spotlight urgent human rights concerns.
A 5km march starting at the Old Fort building in Kotze Street, with the aim of fostering a collective action towards a more equitable and inclusive future, capped off this year’s Constitutional Hill Human Rights Festival.
Event organizers celebrate the success of the We; the People Walk, uniting communities for human rights and democracy Photo: Thato Gololo
The peaceful protest, organized by the Constitutional Hill, comes during the month of Human Rights and saw people march through Braamfontein on Sunday, March 24, 2024. The festival honours the memories of those who died in the 1960 Sharpeville Massacre.
Marchers held flags and posters with slogans like, “It’s your right to know it all.” Attendee, Princess Mkhwanazi told Wits Vuvuzela that she had fulfilled her responsibility as a civil citizen by partaking in the walk. “It’s for highlighting it to everybody, that as much as they (are) in their houses or at work, they also have human rights that should be respected, followed and adhered to,” Mkhwanazi said.
Marketing manager at the Constitutional Hill and Wits alumni, Joshua Sibeko, said, “What we stand for is that only the people of South Africa can change South Africa, if it was not for the people, South Africa would not exist.”
Other activities during the family-friendly festival included education on constitutional rights, film screenings, discussions, and taking people through the motions of voting on mock ballot papers.
FEATURED IMAGE: Locals march in unity, waving flags, during the We; the People Walk for South Africa’s Constitutional Democracy. Photo: Thato Gololo
In this episode, we explore the feasibility of social housing for students, and the advantages and disadvantages that the inner city offers to the development of a student precinct.
