Controversies Surrounding Refereeing in V-League 2023/24: Thanh Hoa Club Demands Dialogue with Referee

The 12th round of V-League 2023/24 has been marred by controversies surrounding refereeing decisions. Thanh Hoa’s defeat at home to Hoang Anh Gia Lai has left coach Velizar Popov’s team questioning several potentially penalty-worthy incidents, including an altercation where Geovane kicked Doan Ngoc Tan in the chest, resulting in just a yellow card.

In light of these contentious calls, Song Lam Nghe An is also seeking a review of the disputed goal conceded in the 90+5th minute, ultimately leading to a narrow 1-0 victory for Nam Dinh. Mr. Cao Tien Doan, president of Thanh Hoa Club, has expressed the club’s desire for a direct dialogue with the referees following their concerns over recent officiating.

The president emphasized the importance of transparency and fairness in the tournament, with clubs like SLNA and Thanh Hoa advocating for open communication with the relevant football governing bodies to address any lingering doubts. While acknowledging the referees’ human fallibility, Mr. Doan highlighted the need for consistency and impartiality in officiating decisions to uphold the integrity of the game.

Although VAR technology has been implemented in some matches, there have been instances where its potential has not been maximized due to referee oversight. Mr. Doan lamented the selective use of VAR and urged for a more comprehensive approach to ensure fairness for all teams involved. He stressed the significance of the VAR operator’s judgment, suggesting that technology alone cannot replace the importance of a referee’s decision-making capacity.

As the V-League season progresses, the spotlight on refereeing standards continues to intensify, prompting calls for enhanced communication and accountability within the officiating community. Amid the ongoing debates and discussions surrounding match officiation, clubs and officials alike are striving for a more equitable and transparent environment to uphold the spirit of fair play in Vietnamese football.

Nam Thanh | 21:58 March 11, 2024

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Denis Hardin

American writer and avid traveler with an insatiable passion for soccer. Hailing from the heartland of the USA, Dennis brings a global perspective to his writings on Asian football. His articles are a fusion of cultural insights and sporting analysis, providing readers with a unique blend of perspectives. Whether he's exploring the bustling football scenes in Tokyo or sharing anecdotes from his time in Mumbai, Dennis's articles are a captivating journey through the diverse world of Asian football.