The technical staff of Kaizer Chiefs, under the direction of new head coach Nasreddine Nabi, is making waves in the modern day for their creative match analysis and bench-placing methodology. With the team's last season's performance under fire, attention has shifted to the club's analytic department, which has undergone a much-needed makeover since Nabi joined.
JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA - SEPTEMBER 28: Players survey the ground before Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns play in the Betway Premiership at FNB Stadium on September 28, 2024, in Johannesburg, South Africa. (Image courtesy of Gallo Images/Ache Greeff)
The Chiefs' administration has made it a priority to update its strategies to reflect current football trends, especially in the wake of their poor previous seasons. The team has been urged by both observers and supporters to use contemporary technologies to strengthen their competitive advantage. Notable innovations include the usage of tablets on the sidelines and the incorporation of live data analysis, which enable coaches to study replays and make choices in real time. These techniques are now commonplace in the best leagues in Europe.
But after a protest after a disputed goal by Iqraam Rayners, referee Sikhumbuzo Gasa ejected the gadgets from the Chiefs' bench during a recent game against Mamelodi Sundowns, controversy broke out. Discussions concerning the legitimacy of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) calls concerning Lucas Ribeiro Costa's possible offside position prior to the goal were triggered by the ruling.
Former referee Victor Hlungwane questioned Gasa's decision and clarified the regulations pertaining to the usage of mobile devices, saying, "The law says the use of any form of electronic communication by team officials is permitted where it relates to player welfare, tactical or coaching purposes." Hlungwane added that the referee ought to have dealt with any improper behaviour displayed by a team official rather than taking away the devices.
"We only witnessed the device being sent off; we never witnessed a technical person being sent off. We weren't aware of this law, therefore we were astonished. Hlungwane highlighted on Metro FM Sports that the referee made a mistake by sending off the gadgets; instead, he ought to have sent off the technical member who acted unlawfully due to the use of communication devices.
The Chiefs are still allowed to use their iPads and other gadgets on the bench in spite of the event since they comply with the regulations of the game. This move shows that the club is committed to adopting technology and raising the bar for performance, which is a critical moment. The use of cutting-edge analytical techniques could be essential for Kaizer Chiefs as they attempt to restore their past glory and navigate the challenging South African football scene.