FIFA Faces Backlash Over Appointment of South African Officials for Nigeria vs Gabon World Cup Playoff
Barely a week before the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff semifinal, the world football governing body FIFA has come under fire following the appointment of South African referees to officiate the highly anticipated clash between Nigeria and Gabon, NigeriaSoccernet.com can report.
According to information shared by UK-based journalist Osasu Obayiuwana, Tom Abongile has been named the centre referee, with Zakhele Siwela serving as assistant referee, and Akhona Makalima as the Video Assistant Referee (VAR).
However, the decision has sparked widespread outrage among Nigerian football stakeholders, who have questioned FIFA’s neutrality and fairness in making the selection.
A senior official of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) expressed deep concern over the appointment, referencing recent remarks by South Africa’s Sports Minister, Gayton McKenzie, who reportedly stated that he wished Nigeria would not qualify for the World Cup.
“How can FIFA appoint a South African refereeing team for our match, after what Gayton McKenzie openly said? South Africa are clearly hostile to us,” the NFF official lamented.
The controversy has continued to dominate discussions across African football circles, with fans and analysts alike urging FIFA to reconsider the appointments to uphold transparency and avoid any perception of bias.
Nigeria’s clash with Gabon, scheduled for next week, will be a make-or-break encounter that could decide the Super Eagles’ qualification for the 2026 World Cup to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
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