Super Eagles: NFF raise alarm over refereeing sabotage ahead of 2026 WCQ playoffs

Officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) have voiced strong objections to the appointment of a South African refereeing team for the Super Eagles’ 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against Gabon.

In a letter dated November 3, FIFA confirmed that Tom Abongile will take charge of the first leg in Rabat, assisted by compatriots Zakhele Siwela and Akhona Makalima, who will handle VAR duties.

The decision has not gone down well at the Glass House. A senior NFF official told journalist Osasu Obayiuwana that the federation was “baffled” by FIFA’s choice, given the strained football relations between Nigeria and South Africa.

“How can FIFA appoint a South African referee after their sports minister openly said he wished Nigeria would not qualify for the World Cup? South Africa are clearly hostile to us,” the official said.

Is NFF’s suspicion over Super Eagles match officials justified?

Nigeria booked their place in the playoffs after a late Frank Onyeka goal earned them a crucial win over Benin Republic in October. They now face Gabon on November 13 at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat. The winner of the tie will advance to meet either DR Congo or Cameroon in the final playoff round.

While FIFA’s refereeing appointments are typically made through its Referees Committee to ensure neutrality, the NFF’s objection stems from the political undertone of recent comments made by South Africa’s sports minister, which some in Nigeria perceive as open hostility.

🎙️ I want Nigeria to lose — they must NOT go to the FIFA World Cup,” says South Africa’s 🇿🇦 Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie — after the Super Eagles made it to the World Cup playoffs.

Your thoughts 💭?👇🏽#FIFAWC2026 #Nigeria #SouthAfrica #Football #GaytonMcKenzie #SuperEagles pic.twitter.com/GPQJkn7Pfz

— OJ (@_Omoruyi_) October 16, 2025

That said, FIFA’s referee selections are usually based on merit, availability, and regional balance, rather than nationality or rivalry history. South African referees are also among the most experienced and respected on the continent, regularly handling CAF Champions League and AFCON matches.

Still, given the high stakes of the fixture and the tense footballing rivalry between both nations, the NFF’s concerns highlight how off-field politics often bleed into Africa’s football narratives, especially on the road to the World Cup.