Media Team
South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has sparked controversy by publicly declaring his opposition to Nigeria’s Super Eagles qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
McKenzie’s remarks came in response to Nigeria’s involvement in a contentious FIFA ruling that impacted South Africa’s qualifying campaign.
Bafana Bafana faced sanctions after fielding an ineligible player during their match against Lesotho, resulting in a three-point deduction and a three-goal penalty.
Nigeria was among the nations that formally protested the incident, prompting FIFA to take disciplinary action.
Despite the setback, South Africa ultimately clinched the top spot in Group C, edging out Nigeria by a single point.
“Some have suggested we should support Nigeria’s qualification,” McKenzie stated during an interview shared by prominent South African journalist Robert Marawa on X.
“Let me be unequivocal—I hope they fail to qualify. I’m aware of their behind-the-scenes maneuvers, and frankly, I want them to lose.
“Another African nation deserves that World Cup spot more than Nigeria.”
