Zamalek Flies Official Protest to CAF, Demands Immediate VAR Action
29 November 2025
CAF Complaint and Allegations
Zamalek's board filed an official protest with the Confederation of African Football after what the club describes as refereeing errors in the 1-1 draw with Kaizer Chiefs in the Confederation Cup group stage in South Africa on Saturday.
The complaint targets the Rwandan referee team led by Samuel Oyikunda, alleging that a clear penalty for Banza was not awarded and a legitimate Seifeddine Jaziri goal was disallowed, along with frequent yellow cards that disrupted the match.
VAR and Referee Quality Demands
Zamalek also asked CAF to step in to appoint referees with competence and experience and to accelerate the adoption of the Video Assistant Referee, starting from the third round of the group stage.
They argue that the absence of VAR harms the integrity of the competition by leaving crucial decisions to the discretion of officials.
The club stated that the absence of VAR is not just an isolated issue but a broader problem affecting the competition and urged a rapid review before the next round.
The note also expressed frustration that referees influence the tempo of the match and, in some cases, the final standings more than plays on the pitch.
CAF is expected to review the matter and respond through official channels in due course.
Match Facts and Aftermath
The game opened with an early goal by Tunisian striker Seifeddine Jaziri in the third minute, but the hosts equalized in stoppage time through an own goal by goalkeeper Mohamed Sobhi, depriving Zamalek of three points.
The draw leaves the White Knights with two valuable points dropped and the club frustrated but still hopeful for better officiating in future matches.
Punchline one: If referees had a microphone, perhaps they would hear the crowd and stop pretending.
Punchline two: This sport may be about two halves, but the scoreboard keeps changing due to the unseen third.
