Former Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Ibrahim Sannie Daara, believes that the introduction of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system will significantly improve the integrity of football in Ghana and make the sport more appealing to fans.
Last week, the GFA held discussions with FIFA officials about the potential implementation of VAR. Sannie Daara supports this move, stressing that the system will help restore trust in refereeing and boost the country’s football leagues.
In an interview with Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Sannie Daara stated, “The introduction of VAR will be very beneficial. During the recent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast, VAR played a crucial role and became one of the tournament’s key highlights.”
He also addressed the common allegations of referee bias in games, suggesting that the introduction of VAR would bring greater transparency and fairness.
“With VAR in place, we will have more integrity in our game, and this will make the league more attractive to fans. It will also increase confidence in the system among the clubs.”
Sannie Daara acknowledged that there are other areas of improvement needed in Ghanaian football but emphasized that VAR is an essential step forward in enhancing the sport’s development.
“While there are many things we need to work on, VAR is certainly something we must embrace as part of our growth.”
Meanwhile, Alex Kotey, the Referees Manager of the GFA, has revealed that VAR will not be implemented at all venues.
“We agree that we can’t use VAR at all the league venues. It will be used for league matches that are broadcast live on television,” Kotey told Asempa FM.
The FIFA delegation involved in the talks included VAR experts Inokuchi Takaaki and Michael Bailey, who offered valuable insights into the operational aspects of VAR.
The GFA’s team at the meeting included Alex Kotey, head of referees and VAR lead for Ghana; Emmanuel Aglago, a VAR instructor; and Marian Mensah, the GFA’s head of legal affairs.
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