XtraTime Web Desk: The 2023 AFC Asian Cup is just around the corner, and it promises to be a groundbreaking event in many ways. As the largest football competition in Asia, it will feature 24 of the continent’s best teams vying for the championship. However, what makes this edition even more special is the inclusion of female referees and the debut of VAR (Video Assistant Referee) technology.
For the first time in the history of the AFC Asian Cup, female referees will be officiating matches. This significant step forward for gender equality in football highlights the growing recognition of women’s contributions to the sport. Japan’s Yoshimi Yamashita will lead the way as one of the female referees in charge of the tournament. Yamashita’s experience extends beyond the Asian Cup, as she also had the responsibility of officiating matches in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Yamashita will not be alone in her role, as she will be joined by a total of six female referees overseeing matches in the Asian Cup. This collective of female referees showcases the growing talent and representation of women in football officiating roles.
In addition to the historic presence of female referees, the 2023 AFC Asian Cup will introduce VAR technology. VAR has become an integral part of modern football, aiding in making more accurate decisions during matches. The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has ensured that VAR will be used appropriately during the tournament, further emphasizing the importance of fair play and transparency in the competition.