CAF Confirms VAR Use For Quarter-Finals, Urges Clubs To Nominate Standard Venues

CAF Confirms VAR Use For Quarter-Finals, Urges Clubs To Nominate Standard Venues

Sampson Adedeji

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed that the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology will be deployed from the quarter-final stage through to the final in both its premier inter-club competitions, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The continental football body disclosed that VAR will be operational in the knockout rounds of the CAF Champions League and the CAF Confederation Cup as part of efforts to enhance officiating standards and ensure fairness in decisive matches.

According to CAF, the move is aimed at improving the quality and credibility of match officiating as the competitions approach their crucial stages.

 The introduction of VAR at this phase is expected to minimize controversial decisions and provide additional support to match officials.

In the same directive, CAF urged all qualified clubs to nominate stadiums that meet the required technical and infrastructural standards necessary for hosting matches at this stage of the competition.

The governing body emphasized that selected venues must satisfy high operational requirements, including facilities capable of supporting VAR technology, adequate lighting, security arrangements, and overall compliance with CAF regulations.

Clubs are therefore expected to ensure that their home grounds meet the stipulated benchmarks or risk being directed to alternative approved venues for their quarter-final fixtures.

The quarter-final matches are scheduled to commence in the coming weeks, with participating teams intensifying preparations both on and off the pitch.