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South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has expressed that he does not wish for the Super Eagles to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
McKenzie was responding to Nigeria’s involvement in his country's challenging qualifying process.
Bafana Bafana faced a deduction of three points and three goals due to fielding an ineligible player in a match against Lesotho.
Nigeria was among the nations that raised objections and urged FIFA to take appropriate action.
Despite this, Hugo Broos’ team ultimately secured the top position in Group C, finishing just one point ahead of the Eagles.
“I heard you previously mention that we (South Africa) would also support Nigeria,” McKenzie stated in an interview shared on X by South African journalist Robert Marawa.
“I want to clarify: I hope they do not qualify. I just want to make that very clear. I am aware of their actions behind the scenes. I want them to lose.
“Nigeria must not participate in the World Cup. Another African nation should take their place.”
Why did McKenzie express a desire for Nigeria not to qualify?
McKenzie feels that Nigeria's actions during the qualifying process were unfair and wants to see another African nation qualify instead.
What was the consequence for Bafana Bafana in the qualifying round?
Bafana Bafana was penalized with a deduction of three points and three goals for fielding an ineligible player.
How did Nigeria influence South Africa's qualifying journey?
Nigeria protested against South Africa's eligibility and called for FIFA to take action, which affected South Africa's chances in the qualifiers.
