Former Premier Soccer League referee Victor Hlungwani has shared his thoughts on the controversial penalty calls during the MTN8 final between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns, backing the penalty given to Pirates but questioning the one awarded to Sundowns.

Sundowns secured a 2-0 victory over Pirates at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, claiming their fifth MTN8 title. However, the match has sparked ongoing debate, particularly regarding the two penalty decisions, causing differing opinions among fans.

During his appearance on Soccerzone, Hlungwani, also known as The Principal, analyzed the decisions made by referee Abongile Tom. He argued that Tom rightly awarded a penalty to Pirates following a challenge involving Teboho Mokoena and Evidence Mbuthuma.

Hlungwani explained that the incident started with a shoulder-to-shoulder challenge before Mokoena extended his arm to push the Pirates attacker. He asserted that this added contact warranted a penalty.

“Mokoena had a shoulder-to-shoulder challenge, and then he extended his hand to push Mbuthuma,” Hlungwani stated. He emphasized that the position and movement of Mokoena's arm were crucial in assessing whether it was a foul. “Notice how the arm is stretched; extending the arm like that signifies pushing. Hence, the referee will correctly award a penalty,” he remarked.

While Pirates missed the penalty, Hlungwani maintained that the decision to award it was accurate. In contrast, he had a different view on the penalty given to Sundowns, which led to their second goal.

He contended that Siyanda Ndlovu appeared to foul Thapelo Mokobodi during the incident, citing that Ndlovu first held Mokobodi before making further contact as he attempted to move. “We see Ndlovu holding Mokobodi, and then he stamps on him while he’s trying to move, even hitting his head. This action constitutes a foul,” Hlungwani explained.

Additionally, he questioned whether enough attention was given to the alleged holding, which he argued hindered Mokobodi's ability to get back up.

His remarks have added to the ongoing conversation surrounding the officiating in the final. Even though Sundowns have celebrated their win, the contrasting penalty decisions continue to be a topic of interest among South African football fans.

https://www.idiskitimes.co.za/mtn8/hlungwani-shares-verdict-on-mtn8-final-penalties/