Zimbabweans have flooded social media with criticism and humor in response to reports that the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has approached FIFA for assistance in rolling out Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in the local Premier Soccer League (PSL).
As reported by Soccer24, ZIFA is seeking both financial backing and technical guidance from FIFA to support the introduction of VAR into domestic football.
The announcement triggered a wave of mocking responses online, with many fans questioning the practicality of introducing such advanced technology while local football struggles with basic infrastructure challenges.
Critics highlighted that several league matches aren’t even recorded due to the absence of functional broadcast equipment, let alone the sophisticated setup VAR requires—such as multiple high-definition camera angles, real-time replay systems, and reliable electricity.
Many fans expressed disbelief that ZIFA is prioritizing VAR over urgent needs like stadium renovations, referee training, and administrative reform.
ZIFA’s VAR Ambitions Spark Online Ridicule from Zimbabweans
Social Media Reactions :
Farie C Mutanha:
“🤣 So funny… You can’t even get one game properly filmed, and you’re talking about VAR for all matches each weekend?”
Mricho Cool Cat BW:
“How about building proper stadiums first?”
Nqobizitha M Nkadlana:
“ZIFA must be dreaming. No electricity, no working stadiums, and no funding—how is VAR even a topic?”
Kay Mhenyu:
“Seriously? We don’t even have a home stadium for the national team, yet someone’s talking about VAR. Kkkkkkk.”
Waynne Maqhawe Ncube:
“Invest in football infrastructure first. Fix the current stadiums before talking about VAR and goal-line tech.”
Chriswell Chitove Zambezi:
“Kkkkk wait—this is just embarrassing now. Our referees don’t even use radio headsets, and we’re thinking of VAR with no stadiums?”
While the idea of modernizing Zimbabwean football is welcomed by some, the consensus among fans seems clear: ZIFA needs to address foundational issues—like poor facilities, inconsistent officiating, and administrative inefficiencies—before considering high-tech innovations like VAR.
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