CAFCL: Justice served? Cardoso reflects on VAR’s role in Stade Malien rout

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has emerged as a vocal advocate for the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system, describing it as an essential tool for the modern game following Masandawana’s dominant 3-0 victory over Stade Malien.

The Brazilians placed one foot in the CAF Champions League semi-finals on Friday night at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, but the narrative post-match was centred on the officiating. With VAR implemented for the quarter-final stages, the technology was called into action to overturn two disallowed goals, ensuring the South African champions weren’t denied by human error.

‘Referees Need Help’, Says Cardoso

Speaking to SABC Sport after the final whistle, Cardoso was emphatic that the introduction of VAR is not about criticising referees, but rather supporting them in an increasingly high-pressure environment.

“Referees should be helped. The game becomes too quick nowadays; there is too much pressure. They need help, and this is a fantastic instrument to support them,” Cardoso explained.

The Portuguese tactician pointed to recent frustrations—including a controversial non-red card incident that left Thapelo Morena injured—as evidence of why the technology is a necessity. “Nothing against the referees, we are just supporting them so that they become better, just like we use video analysis to improve as a team.”

A Command Performance By Sundowns

Off the pitch drama aside, Sundowns were clinical on it. Goals from Khuliso Mudau, Brayan Leon, and Iqraam Rayners handed the hosts a commanding cushion ahead of the return leg in Mali.

The VAR interventions ensured that Sundowns’ dominance was accurately reflected on the scoreboard, a luxury Cardoso feels was missing in previous rounds. “We saw in the last match here two situations that were taken from us [due to] the non-existence of VAR. Everybody needs to get better, and this support is important.”

With a three-goal advantage, Sundowns are now firm favourites to progress to the final four. However, Cardoso’s comments serve as a broader message to continental football authorities: in a game defined by fine margins, technology is no longer a luxury—it’s a requirement.