Confusion and controversy have erupted in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) over the wearing of isiphandla—a traditional wristband made from the skin of a ceremonial goat—after a referee controversially ordered Sekhukhune United’s Thabang Monare off the pitch for wearing one.
The incident occurred during Sekhukhune’s Betway Premiership clash with AmaZulu, when referee Cedric Muvhali insisted Monare remove the bracelet just 12 minutes into the game. His decision drew heavy criticism from cultural leaders and fans, despite his adherence to FIFA regulations.
FIFA’s Law 4 explicitly bans players from wearing any item considered potentially dangerous, including jewellery or wristwear. Yet the enforcement of this rule has been inconsistent across PSL matches—fuelling confusion and anger.
Monare, who had worn the bracelet in previous matches without issue, voiced his frustration on social media after being forced off in the 1-1 draw. Ironically, just a week later, he was allowed to play with the band still on in Sekhukhune’s 2-0 win over Durban City, where he also scored.
Renowned cultural expert VVO Mkhize criticised the referee’s actions, accusing him of disregarding deeply held traditional beliefs.
“That referee was wrong. He undermined our culture and tradition,” said Mkhize. “Isiphandla shows respect to the ancestors. You don’t just take it off—doing so without proper rituals, like slaughtering a white chicken, can anger the ancestors and bring misfortune.”
He added that while some people now wear isiphandla for aesthetic reasons, the spiritual and cultural weight it carries for many makes the decision to remove it highly sensitive.
Monare is far from the only player wearing the traditional bracelet. Kaizer Chiefs’ Sibongiseni “OX” Mthethwa and TS Galaxy’s Khulumani Ndamane have also sported isiphandla during matches without interference.
However, this isn’t the first time the PSL has grappled with the issue. In 2019, referee Jelly Chavani asked two Golden Arrows players—Siyabonga Dube and Sibusiso Sibeko—to remove their isiphandla before taking the field. They reluctantly complied.
The debate has now reached the upper levels of South African football. SAFA head of referees Abdul Ebrahim declined to comment, stating only that the matter had been referred to the PSL for further review. PSL acting CEO Mato Madlala acknowledged the situation and promised to consult with Ebrahim, but had not provided an update at the time of publication.
Sekhukhune United, meanwhile, has declined to speak on Monare’s behalf. The player requested permission to address the incident publicly, but the club—via marketing manager Tebogo Mapinga—refused.
Adding fuel to the debate, international cricketer Lungi Ngidi continues to wear his isiphandla openly while representing South Africa, with no demands to remove or cover it—raising questions over why football treats the matter differently.
As tensions rise between cultural tradition and modern sporting regulation, the PSL may soon be forced to establish clearer guidelines—before more players are caught in the crossfire.
