19.10.2025
South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, said he wishes the Super Eagles fail to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking on Radio 947 in Johannesburg, McKenzie accused Nigeria of working “behind the scenes” to frustrate South Africa’s World Cup qualification campaign, a claim that has added fresh fuel to the growing rivalry between both nations.
“I want to make it very clear that I wish for them not to qualify,” McKenzie said.
“I knew what they did behind the scenes for us not to get there. I want them to lose; they will not go to the World Cup, and another African country must go.”
The 51-year-old former gangster-turned-politician claimed his comments were not personal but a reflection of the long-standing sporting rivalry between both nations.
“It’s not that I don’t like Nigeria. I give the energy you give. They don’t like us, and we don’t like them, that’s all. It’s like the rivalry between Chiefs and Pirates,” he added.
The Super Eagles will face Gabon in November’s playoff. A win would see them advance to a final tie against either Congo DR or Cameroon for a spot in the intercontinental playoffs.
Moses Simon (L) is fighting for the ball with Teboho Mokoena.