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I watch AFCON more than European football – Jose Mourinho
Former Chelsea and Roma coach Jose Mourinho has offered praise for the officiating standards at the ongoing African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The seasoned Portuguese tactician, known for his astute observations in football, admitted his preference for watching the African tournament over European football. He highlighted Africa’s honesty in officiating, particularly emphasizing the fair use of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR).
Mourinho applauded the impartiality of VAR decisions at the AFCON, noting that they are not swayed to favor wealthy or renowned teams.
In a bold suggestion, Mourinho proposed that the headquarters of VAR should be established in Africa, recognizing the continent’s commitment to integrity in football officiating.
“I have watched AFCON more than European football. They are simply teaching us to be honest. In AFCON VAR is used exactly the way it should be used,” Mourinho said per the CFC News Report.
“They do not use it to help the money magnet teams or famous teams. This is why you saw the best out of every team . Because they know VAR is not hired behind the scenes but is for everyone. They listen even to their Players if the Ref missed something and go check. In Europe if I as a coach or a player plead with a ref to go check something, it is a red card for doing that. The headquarters for VAR needs to be in CAF.”
In addition, The African Cup of Nations ends today with a match between the hosts, Cote D’Ivoire, and the Super Eagles of Nigeria.