Zimbabwe's first domestic VAR test is set for the Chibuku Super Cup final. Chahwanda Stadium in Kwekwe will host the match, with video reviews making their local debut. But the game had to be pushed back, as FIFA still had to clear the tech for use.
ZIFA wants fewer bad calls and less drama over refs. Its president, Nqobile Magwizi, sees the move as a way to raise the bar across local soccer. And fair enough, since rows over goals, offside calls, and red cards have been a sore point for years.
Even the government backs the plan. Leaders hope video checks will take some heat off match officials, mainly when a close call could change the result or decide who wins a title.
Getting refs ready is a whole task in itself. Felix Tangawarima, who manages referees for FIFA and CAF, is leading a 20-day course in Harare. The four-part setup covers class lessons, mock drills, brief games, and full-game tests.
There's a catch, though. TV crews must learn how to work with VAR as well. Tangawarima has made it clear that trained refs alone won't cut it if those who air the games can't keep up. ZBC and Zimpapers Television Network hold the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League TV rights.
As for the bill, Sakunda Holdings is paying US$3.2 million to fund the rollout, and gear orders are already in motion. Rufaro Stadium and National Sports Stadium, both in Harare, are on the first install list. Barbourfields Stadium in Bulawayo is also set to get the system.
Still, ZIFA isn't about to put VAR in every league fixture at once. The plan is to start with a few chosen games, test how well the setup works, and build from there.
ZIFA wants fewer bad calls and less drama over refs. Its president, Nqobile Magwizi, sees the move as a way to raise the bar across local soccer. And fair enough, since rows over goals, offside calls, and red cards have been a sore point for years.
Even the government backs the plan. Leaders hope video checks will take some heat off match officials, mainly when a close call could change the result or decide who wins a title.
Getting refs ready is a whole task in itself. Felix Tangawarima, who manages referees for FIFA and CAF, is leading a 20-day course in Harare. The four-part setup covers class lessons, mock drills, brief games, and full-game tests.
There's a catch, though. TV crews must learn how to work with VAR as well. Tangawarima has made it clear that trained refs alone won't cut it if those who air the games can't keep up. ZBC and Zimpapers Television Network hold the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League TV rights.
As for the bill, Sakunda Holdings is paying US$3.2 million to fund the rollout, and gear orders are already in motion. Rufaro Stadium and National Sports Stadium, both in Harare, are on the first install list. Barbourfields Stadium in Bulawayo is also set to get the system.
Still, ZIFA isn't about to put VAR in every league fixture at once. The plan is to start with a few chosen games, test how well the setup works, and build from there.
