Nigerians Express Concern Over Appointment of South African Officials for Crucial World Cup Playoff
Written by Alonge Akinlolu on 6 — 11
Tension is rising among Nigerian football fans following the appointment of South African referees to officiate the Super Eagles’ crucial 2026 World Cup playoff clash against Gabon.
The officiating crew includes referee Tom Abongile, assistant referee Granville Siwela, and VAR official Zennith Makalima, all from South Africa. The match delegate, Alain Adjovi, hails from Benin Republic.
Many Nigerians are questioning the neutrality of the decision, citing recent remarks by South Africa’s Sports Minister, Gayton McKenzie, who openly expressed his desire for Nigeria to miss out on World Cup qualification.
In an October interview with sports journalist Robert Marawa, McKenzie said:
“I want to make it very clear that I wish for Nigeria not to qualify. I want them to lose; they will not go to the World Cup, and another African country must go.”
With such comments still fresh, Nigerian fans are calling on FIFA and CAF to reconsider the appointments, arguing that the integrity of the playoff could be compromised.
