Fans protest as FIFA names South African referee for Nigeria–Gabon World Cup playoff

FIFA has appointed a South African officiating team to handle the Super Eagles’ 2026 World Cup playoff first leg against Gabon, sparking strong objections from fans who have questioned the neutrality of the decision.

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

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

A senior Nigeria Football Federation official told journalist Osasu Obayiuwana that the federation was “baffled” by FIFA’s decision, citing 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,” Obayiuwana quoted the official on his X handle on Thursday.

The development has also triggered a wave of criticism on social media.

Media personality @PoojaMedia wrote on X, “In fairness & sentiments, South African officials shouldn’t be appointed by CAF to officiate Nigeria vs. Gabon in this WC playoffs in Morocco.”

He referenced how a South African minister had previously said he did not want Nigeria to qualify for the World Cup to express how the officiating may disfavour the Super Eagles.

“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,” he said, urging the NFF to formally protest the appointments.

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

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

Referee appointments for FIFA competitions are typically made by its Referees Committee to ensure neutrality.

South African officials are among the continent’s most experienced, frequently officiating at CAF Champions League and AFCON matches.

Source: Punch