FIFA has named a team of South African referees to officiate Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup playoff against Gabon, sparking strong reactions from fans and officials.
According to a letter dated November 3, Tom Abongile will be the centre referee for the first-leg match in Rabat, Morocco. He will be assisted by fellow South Africans Zakhele Siwela and Akhona Makalima, who will also handle VAR duties. The referee assessor for the game will come from Benin Republic.
The decision has not gone down well in Nigeria, where many are questioning FIFA’s choice and the neutrality of the officials.
A senior official of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) expressed surprise at the development. Speaking to journalist Osasu Obayiuwana, the official said the federation 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? South Africa are clearly hostile to us,” the NFF official said.
Nigeria reached the playoff stage after defeating Benin Republic in October, thanks to a late winner from midfielder Frank Onyeka.
The Super Eagles will face Gabon on November 13 at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat. The winner will go on to play either DR Congo or Cameroon in the final playoff round.
The appointment has also stirred reactions on social media. Journalist Toyin Ibitoye wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “Just hearing now that FIFA/CAF picked South African referees (including VAR) for next week’s World Cup playoff vs Gabon. The Referee Assessor is from Benin Republic. What manner of gang-up against the Super Eagles is this?”
Many Nigerian fans have echoed similar sentiments online, urging FIFA to reconsider the decision and ensure a fair contest.
