The South African Football Association has clarified why the Golden Arrows technical team was not permitted to make a sixth substitution during their Nedbank Cup Last 32 match against Chippa United.
In the 88th minute of their 2-1 defeat on Saturday, Arrows full-back Brandon Theron was injured after being knocked down by his own goalkeeper, Ismail Watenga, who was trying to clear a Chippa corner kick.
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Concerningly, there was confusion as the home side attempted to replace Theron, who seemed to have suffered a concussion, despite having already made five substitutions.
During the match, Abafana Bes'thende made the following substitutions: Ntsikelelo Nxadi was replaced by Kagiso Malinga and Themba Mantshiyane made way for Sibeko (both subs in the 81st minute), Olwethu Ncube was replaced by Sazi Gumbi at the start of the second half (46th minute).
Meanwhile, Siyanda Mthanti was substituted for Tebogo Tlolane in the 68th minute, and Sbonele Cele was replaced by Ryan Moon in the 56th minute.
Despite the situation, the never-say-die Theron ultimately returned to the pitch.
According to Abdul Ebrahim, Head of Referees at SAFA, there is currently no protocol that allows clubs to make a sixth substitution in the event of a concussion during a match.
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"The referee would not comment on the sixth substitution rule because there is no such rule," Ebrahim explained, speaking to KickOff.com.
"Substitution for concussions is addressed in the Laws of the Game for 2024-2025."
Ebrahim added that this protocol must be confirmed by the League and formally included in the Rules of the Competition.