Fans Protest as FIFA Names South African Referee for Nigeria–Gabon World Cup Playoff

The appointment of a South African officiating team for Nigeria’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff clash against Gabon has triggered widespread outrage among Nigerian football fans and stakeholders, who are questioning the fairness of the decision.

According to an official communication from FIFA dated November 3, 2025, South Africa’s Tom Abongile has been designated as the centre referee for the first-leg encounter, with Zakhele Siwela and Akhona Makalima serving as assistant referees and VAR official respectively.

The match is scheduled to take place on November 13, 2025, at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.
A referee assessor from Benin Republic will also be on duty.

The development has stirred discontent within Nigeria’s football community, with many fans taking to social media to express their displeasure. Critics argue that the decision undermines the principle of neutrality, given the historical tensions and competitive rivalry between Nigeria and South Africa in continental football.

A senior official of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), who spoke to journalist Osasu Obayiuwana, described FIFA’s appointment as “baffling,” noting that the federation was not consulted before the decision was made.

“We are surprised and honestly concerned. Given the strained football relations between Nigeria and South Africa, one would expect FIFA to avoid any situation that might raise questions about impartiality,” the NFF source said.

While the federation has yet to issue a formal protest, insiders suggest that the NFF is weighing its options, including lodging an appeal for a change of officiating crew before the matchday.

Meanwhile, some fans have also pointed to recent controversial refereeing incidents involving South African officials in African competitions as a cause for concern.

The Super Eagles are seeking to secure an early advantage in the two-legged playoff series against Gabon as part of their quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.