FIFA’s appointment of South African match officials for Nigeria’s World Cup playoff against Gabon has drawn criticism from fans who fear potential bias.
The Super Eagles face Gabon on November 13 in Morocco, with the winner advancing to play either DR Congo or Cameroon for Africa’s slot in the intercontinental playoff.
South Africa’s Tom Abongile has been named centre referee, assisted by compatriot Zakhele Siwela, while Akhona Makalima serves as VAR. Hughes Ndjovi from Benin Republic will act as referee assessor.
Nigerian supporters argue the appointments are problematic, as both South Africa and Benin were in Group C with Nigeria during qualifiers. South Africa topped the group while Nigeria advanced as one of the best runners-up. Past tensions between Nigeria and South Africa also fuel concern; South Africa’s sports minister, Gayton McKenzie, previously criticised Nigeria over a FIFA sanction and publicly opposed Nigeria’s qualification.
Photo-journalist Suleiman Adebayo wrote on X: “A sitting minister in South Africa said he doesn’t want Nigeria to qualify for the WC & CAF had to appoint South Africans as the centre ref, AR & VR? Even the Ref Assessor is from Benin. CAF should rethink this fast.”
Another user, Kappo Ebenezer Sewanu, called on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to intervene, citing previous disadvantages Nigerian teams faced in South Africa. The NFF has yet to respond publicly.
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