Budafoki MTE Overview

Columnist Lerato Mkhondo takes on officiating standards in South African domestic competitions. After weeks of acrimony and controversy in the 2026/27 season, she argues there is only one cure to the problem until VAR is finally implemented. Let the referees explain themselves.

The Village Boys claimed their first win in the Betway Premiership in the Mpumalanga Derby, after the Stallions thumped the Natal Rich Boyz, while the City of Roses outfit settled for a draw with Abafana Bes’thende. Another goal from the league’s in-form marksman saw Usuthu climb the table on Saturday, with Bradley Grobler’s late equaliser earning Gavin Hunt’s men a point on Friday.

Amakhosi's head coach has shed light on the limited involvement of Tanzanian midfielder Adolf Mtasingwa since his arrival at Naturena. Despite being a highly-rated addition to the Amakhosi squad, the 27-year-old has found minutes hard to come by in the opening stages of the campaign.

Amakhosi's head coach has added his voice to the growing list of figures calling for the urgent implementation of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in South African football. Following a controversial draw with Polokwane City, the Frenchman highlighted several incidents where he believes his side were unfairly disadvantaged by officiating errors.