FIFA’s decision to appoint a South African refereeing team for Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup playoff first leg against Gabon has drawn criticism from Nigerian football fans and officials, who have questioned the neutrality of the move.
According to a FIFA communication dated November 3, 2025, Tom Abongile will serve as the centre referee, with Zakhele Siwela and Akhona Makalima assisting as part of the officiating crew. Makalima will also oversee VAR operations. The referee assessor for the encounter, scheduled for November 13 at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, will come from Benin Republic.
A senior Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) official expressed concern over the appointments, citing tensions in football relations between Nigeria and South Africa. The official said the federation was surprised that FIFA would assign referees from a country perceived to have a competitive rivalry with Nigeria.
The development has also ignited widespread debate on social media, with fans and commentators describing the decision as “provocative” and calling for the NFF to register an official protest.
Critics have referenced past comments by a South African government official expressing a desire for Nigeria to miss World Cup qualification, arguing that such sentiments could cast doubt on the referees’ impartiality.
The Super Eagles advanced to the playoff stage following a narrow win over Benin Republic in October, secured by a late strike from Frank Onyeka. The team will face Gabon over two legs, with the aggregate winner moving on to meet either DR Congo or Cameroon in the final qualification round.
FIFA’s Referees Committee typically selects officials based on experience and regional balance, with South African referees regarded among Africa’s most seasoned, often featuring in AFCON and CAF Champions League matches.
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