Former Manchester United defender, Gary Neville, has applauded referees at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast.
The England legend has been impressed by officials’ use of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), with no major controversies marring the tournament yet.
The use of VAR in Europe, and especially in the English Premier League, has come under a lot of scrutiny following notable mistakes by officials.
The underwhelming use of the technology in the English league has also sparked discussions over its relevance amid growing criticism from players and coaches.
However, according to Neville, the VAR’s near-perfect use at AFCON 2023 means Europe has a lot to learn from Africa.
“The standards of officiating set by this year’s AFCON are honestly staggering. It’s like they invented it. The premier league and all of Europe have a lot of learning to do,” he said.
On Wednesday, the VAR played a huge role in the game between Nigeria and South Africa, as a reversed decision saw the Super Eagles lose their two-goal advantage as Bafana Bafana levelled the scores.
Nigeria went on to win the game on penalties and will face host Ivory Coast in the final on Sunday.
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