PENALTY CONTROVERSY BOMBSHELL! Victor Hlungwani Backs Referee Gasa as Kaizer Chiefs Fans Question Decision Against Stellenbosch FC

SOUTH AFRICAN FOOTBALL NEWS | 20 OCTOBER 2026

The debate surrounding Kaizer Chiefs’ 1-1 draw against Stellenbosch FC has taken another turn after former Premier Soccer League (PSL) referee Victor Hlungwani publicly backed referee Sikhumbuzo Gasa’s decision not to award a penalty during the match.

The controversial moment sparked discussion among supporters, with questions being raised about whether Chiefs should have been awarded a spot-kick. However, Hlungwani believes the match official made the correct call, insisting that the position of the defender’s hand did not justify a penalty.

Victor Hlungwani Explains Why Chiefs Were Not Robbed

Hlungwani, who is known for analysing refereeing decisions in South African football, offered a clear explanation of why he believes Gasa was right to allow play to continue.

“The hand is in a natural position. Did it [the ball] hit the hand, the answer is no! So, no penalty! It's not there. Chiefs were not robbed. Correct decision by Gasa to give corner kick,” Hlungwani explained.

His assessment centres on two crucial questions: whether the ball actually made contact with the hand and whether the player's hand was in an unnatural position that warranted a penalty.

According to Hlungwani’s explanation, the circumstances did not meet the requirements for a spot-kick. He therefore supported Gasa’s decision to award a corner kick instead.

The former referee’s comments have added an important perspective to a debate that often divides football supporters, particularly when a disputed decision could influence the outcome of a closely contested match.

Chiefs and Stellenbosch Share the Points

The 1-1 result meant that neither side emerged with all three points, leaving supporters to reflect on both the performance and the officiating.

For Kaizer Chiefs, every dropped point carries significance as the club continues its efforts to deliver consistent performances and satisfy its demanding fan base. Stellenbosch FC, meanwhile, will also take encouragement from securing a share of the spoils against one of South Africa’s most closely followed teams.

Nevertheless, the disputed handball incident has become a talking point beyond the final scoreline.

Was Sikhumbuzo Gasa Right?

Hlungwani’s defence of Gasa highlights the importance of assessing handball incidents according to the circumstances rather than automatically awarding a penalty whenever a defender is suspected of handling the ball.

Although supporters may disagree over individual decisions, the distinction between an actual offence and an incident that does not warrant punishment remains central to refereeing.

For now, Hlungwani’s verdict is clear: Chiefs were not robbed, and Gasa made the correct decision.

The controversy is likely to continue among fans, but the former PSL referee has firmly placed his support behind the match official.

Source https://x.com/iDiskiTimes/status/2112477091484541420