FIFA’s appointment of a South African refereeing crew for Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup playoff first leg against Gabon has sparked widespread criticism from officials and fans who question the neutrality of the decision.
According to a FIFA letter dated November 3, South African referee Tom Abongile will oversee the match, supported by compatriots Zakhele Siwela as assistant referee and Akhona Makalima handling VAR duties. The referee assessor will come from Benin Republic.
The decision immediately drew concern within Nigeria’s football community. A senior Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) official, speaking to journalist Osasu Obayiuwana, said the organization was “baffled” by the appointment.
“How can FIFA appoint a South African referee after their sports minister openly said he wished Nigeria would not qualify for the World Cup?” the official asked. “South Africa are clearly hostile to us.”
The Super Eagles, who booked their playoff spot after Frank Onyeka’s late goal sealed victory over Benin Republic in October, are set to face Gabon on November 13 at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat. The winner will progress to face either DR Congo or Cameroon in the final qualification round.
On social media, the controversy has gained traction among Nigerian football supporters and journalists. Broadcaster Toyin Ibitoye wrote on X, “Just hearing now that @FIFAcom / @CAF_Online picked South African referees (including VAR) for next week’s #2026WorldCupPlayoff vs Gabon. The Referee Assessor is from Benin Republic. What manner of gang up against the @NGSuperEagles is this?”
Media personality @PoojaMedia echoed the sentiment, questioning CAF’s decision: “How can CAF appoint South African officials to officiate the Nigeria vs. Gabon game?”
Other users joined the chorus of disapproval. @pamelamodella stated, “A South African referee shouldn’t be officiating a Nigerian game for Christ’s sake, especially when the games are very crucial. The NFF has to do something.”
Similarly, @Don17488409 urged immediate intervention: “Stop wasting time, write to FIFA now and reject the officials from South Africa. Senegal once did, and the referee was changed.”
As of Friday, FIFA and CAF have not commented on the concerns raised by Nigerian football authorities. However, NFF sources suggest that the federation is considering an official protest before the playoff tie.
The growing backlash underscores how politically charged African football rivalries can become, particularly when World Cup qualification is at stake. For now, all eyes are on Rabat, where the Super Eagles will seek to rise above the controversy and secure a crucial advantage against Gabon.
