South African Sports Minister Voices Desire for Nigeria to Miss 2026 World Cup
Gayton McKenzie, South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, has openly stated his wish that Nigeria’s national football team, the Super Eagles, fail to secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
McKenzie’s remarks are rooted in allegations regarding Nigeria’s conduct during a controversial phase of the World Cup qualification process, which he claims involved underhanded tactics.
The dispute intensified after South Africa’s team, Bafana Bafana, was penalized with a deduction of three points and three goals due to fielding an ineligible player in their match against Lesotho.
It was reported that Nigeria was among the countries that lodged formal complaints with FIFA, pushing the organization to apply the regulations strictly.
Despite this challenge, South Africa, under the guidance of coach Hugo Broos, managed to top Group C, finishing just one point ahead of Nigeria.
McKenzie’s Statement
During an interview highlighted by South African sports journalist Robert Marawa, McKenzie did not hold back his sentiments.
“Earlier, I heard it said that we would support Nigeria,” McKenzie remarked.
He added, “Let me be very clear: I want them to fail in qualifying. I am aware of what they did behind the scenes. I want them to lose.”
He concluded with conviction, “Nigeria should not participate in the World Cup. It’s time for another African nation to take their place.”