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.”
Credit: The Punch