FIFA appoints South African referees for Nigeria vs Gabon, fans raise concerns

FIFA has named a South African officiating team for Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup playoff first leg against Gabon, prompting concerns over neutrality from fans and football stakeholders.

According to a FIFA letter dated November 3, 2025, Tom Abongile will serve as the centre referee, assisted by Zakhele Siwela and Akhona Makalima, who will oversee VAR duties.

The referee assessor will come from Benin Republic. The match is scheduled for November 13 at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat.

A senior Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) official told journalist Osasu Obayiuwana that the federation was “baffled” by FIFA’s decision, highlighting tensions in football relations between Nigeria and South Africa.

The official questioned the appointment after a South African minister publicly expressed hopes that Nigeria would not qualify for the World Cup.

Social media reactions have also been critical. Media personality @PoojaMedia wrote on X, urging CAF to reconsider the appointments, stating: “A sitting minister in South Africa on tape said he doesn’t want Nigeria to qualify for the WC & CAF had to appoint South Africans as the centre ref, AR & VR in a game involving Nigeria? Even the Ref Assessor is from Benin Republic. CAF should rethink this fast.”

The Super Eagles reached the playoff round after a dramatic win over Benin Republic in October, sealed by Frank Onyeka’s late goal.

The winner of the Nigeria-Gabon tie will face either DR Congo or Cameroon in the final round of qualification.

FIFA’s referee appointments are made by its Referees Committee to ensure neutrality, with South African officials frequently chosen for CAF Champions League and AFCON matches due to their experience.

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