Enyimba secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Doma United in a dramatic encounter at the Enyimba International Stadium in Aba on Sunday. However, the win was overshadowed by a controversial refereeing decision involving Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology.
Chijoke Mbaoma put the home side ahead for Enyimba, but the drama unfolded in the 88th minute. Enyimba initially celebrated a goal, only for it to be flagged for offside. Referee Nura, a FIFA badge holder, then consulted with the StarTimes OB Van, which does not house VAR technology in the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL).
Despite the lack of VAR, referee Nura reviewed the play for several minutes before controversially awarding the goal to Enyimba. This decision sparked confusion and a temporary halt in the game.
Doma United players and coaching staff vehemently protested the decision, arguing that the referee had been misled by technology not present in the league. The game eventually resumed for a short period before the final whistle blew, finalizing the controversial 1-0 scoreline.
The incident is likely to raise questions about officiating standards in the NPFL and the potential for confusion when referees consult technology not designed for VAR use.