Former Manchester United defender, Gary Neville has applauded referees at the Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.
The England legend has been left impressed by the use of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) by officials of the
tournament, with AFCON yet to record a controversy from the use of the technology.
The use of VAR in Europe and especially in the English Premier League has come under a lot of scrutiny following
mistakes by officials.The underwhelming use of the technology has also generated talks over its relevance due to the
growing criticism from players and coaches.
However, according to Neville, its near-perfect use at AFCON means Europe has a lot to learn from Africa. “The
standards of officiating set by this year’s AFCON are honestly staggering. It’s like they invented it. The premier league
and all of Europe have a lot of learning to do,” he said.
On Wednesday, VAR played a huge role in the game between Nigeria and South Africa, as a reversed decision saw the
Super Eagles lose their two-goal advantage as the Bafana Bafana leveled the scores.
Nigeria faced Ivory Coast in the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations
Nigeria went on to win the game on penalties and will face host Ivory Coast in the final on Sunday.
In the third and fourth place game, South Africa will face the Democratic Republic of Congo on Sunday, as reported by the BBC.
Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Super Falcons forward Asisat Oshoala wants Manchester United to sign Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali following his AFCON heroics as the Super Eagles reach the final of the competition.
The South Africa-based goalkeeper made two saves as Nigeria defeated South Africa on penalties to keep their dreams of winning a fourth AFCON alive.
Following his splendid display, ex-Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand took to social media to show his support for the Super Eagles.Read More
