Badi's growing list of controversies involving Chiefs

PSL referee Luxolo Badi has once again found himself at the centre of controversy involving Kaizer Chiefs, with the Soweto derby defeat to Orlando Pirates adding to a growing list of contentious decisions involving Amakhosi.

The latest incident has reignited debate over Badi’s officiating, particularly considering previous high-profile matches involving Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns.

Soweto Derby – October 2026

Chiefs suffered a 2-1 defeat to Pirates on Saturday, but the result was overshadowed by controversial officiating decisions.

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Amakhosi head coach Fernando Da Cruz was particularly unhappy, claiming Pirates “played with 12, not 11.”

Da Cruz particularly questioned the decision to allow Yanela Mbuthuma’s opening goal, which appeared to involve a tight offside call, while also protesting the failure to send off Simphiwe Selepe for an alleged second bookable offence.

Chiefs eventually finished with ten men after Inácio Miguel received a second yellow card late in the encounter.

MTN8 Semi-Final – September 2023

Badi previously attracted significant criticism during Chiefs’ MTN8 semi-final second-leg defeat to Sundowns.

Amakhosi felt they were denied at least two penalties, including a late incident involving Thapelo Maseko and Mduduzi Mdantsane.

Following the match, SAFA suspended Badi and placed him on a four-week rehabilitation programme. Former referee Ace Ncobo also publicly highlighted three incorrect decisions.

Carling Knockout – November 2024

Another controversial encounter came when Chiefs faced Sundowns in the Carling Knockout.

The former PSL Referee of the Season was criticised by Amakhosi supporters for awarding Sundowns a disputed penalty, allowing an allegedly offside goal and sending off Miguel following a second yellow card. 

Although former referee Victor Hlungwani defended the decisions, the match generated considerable backlash.

Interestingly, the Eastern Cape-born referee has now sent Miguel off for the second time, following the Angolan’s dismissal against Pirates on Saturday.

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Premiership – May 2026

Badi was also heavily criticised following Chiefs’ Premiership encounter against Sundowns, which was widely described as a refereeing horror show.

The 32-year-old referee was accused of failing to control the physical contest, with questions raised over several challenges that could have warranted red cards. 

Siphesihle Ndlovu was among the players criticised following a challenge that left Keanu Cupido with a fractured collarbone. Cupido is yet to return from the same injury, having seemingly been rushed back for the CAF Champions League final second leg against AS FAR.

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Betway Premiership Kaizer Chiefs News Orlando Pirates Soweto Derby