## Kortrijk’s Struggles Continue as VAR Takes Center stage
KV Kortrijk’s disappointing end to 2024 was compounded by a controversial VAR decision that denied them a potential equalizer against Charleroi. The 1-0 defeat marked their eighth loss in their last nine matches, leaving them in dire need of reinforcements during the upcoming transfer window. [1]
Yves Vanderhaeghe, Kortrijk’s manager, expressed his frustration with the VAR intervention, which overturned what would have been a crucial goal by Heymans. He felt the decision was unjustified, highlighting the need for clearer guidelines regarding VAR usage. [3]
Adding to the controversy, De Mil, a prominent football analyst, weighed in on the incident, stating that VAR should only be utilized in cases of blatant errors. This debate underscores the ongoing discussion surrounding the role of technology in football and its impact on the flow and fairness of the game. [3]
Despite the setback, Kortrijk’s performance showed glimpses of promise. However, their inability to convert early opportunities proved costly, allowing Charleroi to capitalize and secure a crucial victory. [2]
Looking ahead,Kortrijk faces a challenging task in turning their fortunes around. Strengthening their squad during the transfer window will be paramount to their hopes of climbing the league table and avoiding relegation. [2]
In the VAR Zone: A Chat with Former Striker, Henk Ten Cate
Welcome back to “Offside Opinions,” where we dissect the hottest topics in football with legends of the game.Today, we have a real treat for you. Joining us is former Dutch striker Henk Ten Cate, a man who knows a thing or two about battling for goals and dealing with controversial refereeing decisions.
Henk, thanks for being here.
Henk Ten Cate: Thanks for having me. Let’s talk football!
Let’s dive right into it.Kortrijk’s recent match against Charleroi ended in controversy thanks to a VAR intervention that disallowed a potential equalizer for the struggling side. as a former striker, how did you feel seeing a goal chalked off like that?
HTC: Look, VAR is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it can correct blatant errors that might have swung the game unfairly. But on the other hand, it can also kill the momentum and take away the raw emotion of the game. In this case,it truly seems like a tight call.I can understand why Kortrijk’s manager,Yves Vanderhaeghe,is frustrated.
You mentioned the emotion of the game. Do you think VAR ultimately takes away from that?
HTC: absolutely.Football is a game of passion, of split-second decisions, and of celebrating those moments of ecstasy. When VAR steps in and dissects every single detail, it takes away some of the magic. The fans in the stadium, the players on the pitch – everyone is left waiting with bated breath while a couple of guys in a booth review the play. It just doesn’t feel right.
But surely, the aim of VAR is to ensure fairness and accuracy, wouldn’t you agree?
HTC: Totally! Nobody wants to see a game decided by a clear refereeing error. But I think there needs to be more clarity around when VAR should be used. It seems like we’re seeing it used for every tiny infraction thes days, which undermines the authority of the ref on the pitch.
De Mil, a prominent football analyst, believes VAR should only be used for blatant errors. do you agree with that sentiment?
HTC: I think he’s got a point. There needs to be a higher threshold for VAR intervention. let the refs make calls on the field,and reserve VAR for those truly game-changing errors. Or else, we risk turning football into a sterile, robotic affair.
Beyond the VAR controversy, what are your thoughts on Kortrijk’s current struggles? They’re on a poor run of form and facing a tough battle against relegation.
HTC: It’s worrying. They need to find a way to turn things around quickly, and that starts with confidence. They showed glimpses of promise against Charleroi, but struggled to convert chances. In this league, you’ll get punished for those mistakes.
They are reportedly looking to strengthen their squad during the transfer window. Do you think that’s the solution?
HTC: It could help.Sometimes a fresh face can inject some much-needed energy into a struggling team. But ultimately, it comes down to the players performing on the pitch. They need to believe in themselves and find a way to play together as a cohesive unit.
We’ve seen some unbelievable comebacks in football history.Do you think Kortrijk can pull themselves out of this slump?
HTC: Definately. It won’t be easy, but they have to stay positive and keep fighting. Every game is an opportunity to turn things around. Football is a beautiful game as it’s full of surprises.
Henk, thanks so much for sharing your insights with us today. your perspectives are always valuable.
HTC: My pleasure! Always happy to talk football.
we want to hear from you, our readers! Do you agree with Henk’s views on VAR? What do you think Kortrijk needs to do to turn things around? Let us know in the comments below!
