Africa-Press – Mauritius. Controversy has erupted ahead of next week’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff between Nigeria and Gabon, following FIFA’s decision to appoint a team of South African match officials for the encounter.
According to UK-based journalist Osasu Obayiuwana, world football’s governing body named Tom Abongile as the centre referee, Zakhele Siwela as the assistant referee, and Akhona Makalima as the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) for the semifinal clash.
The decision has sparked outrage among Nigerian football stakeholders, who have questioned FIFA’s impartiality, citing concerns over the potential influence of recent political remarks made by South Africa’s Sports Minister, Gayton McKenzie. McKenzie had reportedly expressed hope that Nigeria would fail to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
A senior Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) official, speaking on condition of anonymity, condemned the appointment, calling it “provocative” and “insensitive” given the strained football rivalry between both nations.
“How can FIFA appoint a South African refereeing team for our match after what Gayton McKenzie said about wishing Nigeria would not qualify for the World Cup? South Africa are clearly hostile to us,” the NFF official protested.
The development has since fueled intense debate across Africa, with fans and analysts urging FIFA to reconsider the selection to preserve fairness and credibility in such a high-stakes fixture.
Nigeria’s clash with Gabon is seen as pivotal to the Super Eagles’ qualification hopes for the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
As anticipation builds, the pressure is now on FIFA to address the growing discontent and ensure that next week’s showdown is decided solely on the pitch — and not overshadowed by controversy off it.
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