The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) says it has taken note of fans’ ongoing concerns about the quality of Zambian Super League broadcasting by the official broadcaster, SuperSport.
The Zambian Super League kicked off last weekend with two live matches broadcast on the South African television but with poor video quality and sound.
The broadcaster used an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered camera to show the matches on SuperSport TV, but there are concerns about a lack of slow-motion replays and a one-sided angle.
Although the camera’s specifications have not been revealed, it is believed that a Pixellot Show S3 AI-automated sports camera which features a 12K three-camera array in a compact and lightweight unit, was used.
The Pixellot Show S3 provides fans with vivid, sharp video images and a high-quality analysis solution for coaches. It can show a full-pitch panoramic view as it automatically keeps track of the movement of the ball without needing a camera person.
SuperSport’s partner Vision View left Zambia
BolaNews understands that the contract between Vision View, a production company that used to broadcast Super League games, and SuperSport was terminated due to financial constraints being faced by the South African broadcaster.
Before the league’s return last weekend, they subcontracted with an unidentified production company that is using the said AI technology.
FAZ president Andrew Kamanga has since said the association has been made aware of the public outcry around the broadcasting of the match.
Kamanga has revealed that FAZ has engaged SuperSport with the resolutions to be made public after the discussions.
“We are keeping tabs as the season unfolds. We have also been made aware of anxieties around the quality of the feed for matches broadcast by our partner SuperSport,” Kamanga said.
Kamanga says the association’s priority is to see top-quality broadcasting of the top-tier league.
“It is a matter we have taken up with our partners and will be in a position to guide once the back room engagements are done. It remains a matter of utmost priority that the quality of the broadcast of our league matches remains top-notch,” Kamanga said.
SuperSport Variety 4 aired two matches from the Zambian Super League’s first weekend.
The matches were broadcast from Shinde Stadium and Nchanga Stadium, with Mufulira Wanderers, Nchanga Rangers facing Power Dynamos, and FC MUZA, respectively.
