South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has sparked controversy after openly stating that he does not want Nigeria’s Super Eagles to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
During an interview with Johannesburg-based Radio 947, McKenzie accused Nigeria of trying to sabotage South Africa’s qualification chances, claiming their actions during the World Cup qualifiers were “far from supportive.”
His remarks come amid rising tensions between both nations following a fiercely contested qualifying campaign. South Africa’s journey was shaken when FIFA deducted three points from their record for fielding an ineligible player, a decision that temporarily put their automatic qualification at risk.
Nigeria capitalized on the development, winning their final two group games to stay in the race for the top spot. However, South Africa eventually secured the Group C ticket with a commanding 3-0 victory over Rwanda, booking their return to the World Cup for the first time since 2010.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s qualification hopes now hang on a difficult playoff route, starting with a clash against Gabon in November. If victorious, the Super Eagles will then face either DR Congo or Cameroon for a shot at the intercontinental playoff.
McKenzie made his feelings clear during the interview.
“I heard you saying earlier that we were supporting Nigeria. Let me be clear, I don’t want them to qualify for the 2026 World Cup,” he said bluntly.
The minister alleged that Nigeria acted against South Africa during the qualification process, suggesting his remarks were a response to perceived hostility.
“I know what they did behind the scenes to stop us from qualifying. I want them to lose. Another African country can go, but not them,” McKenzie declared.
He, however, denied any personal grudge against Nigerians, describing the rivalry as mutual and purely competitive.
“It’s not that I hate Nigeria. I give the same energy they give us. They don’t like us, and we don’t like them—it’s just rivalry, like between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates,” he added.
The minister’s comments have stirred debates among football fans across Africa, reigniting discussions about the long-standing football rivalry between Nigeria and South Africa.