South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has stirred controversy after openly declaring that he does not want the Super Eagles of Nigeria to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
During an interview with Radio 947 in Johannesburg, McKenzie accused Nigeria of trying to sabotage South Africa’s qualification journey, alleging that their conduct during the qualifiers created unnecessary hostility.
His remarks come amid renewed rivalry between the two footballing nations, following a tense World Cup qualifying campaign that saw both teams battling for the top spot in Group C.
South Africa suffers setback
South Africa suffered a major setback when FIFA deducted three points from their tally for fielding an ineligible player, a penalty that initially threatened their qualification hopes. However, they bounced back with a 3–0 victory over Rwanda, securing their first World Cup qualification since 2010.
Nigeria, meanwhile, managed to stay competitive by winning their final two matches but ultimately fell short, forcing them into the continental playoffs to fight for a place at the tournament.
McKenzie insists Nigeria shouldn’t qualify
McKenzie has since maintained his stance, saying he would rather see other African nations at the World Cup than Nigeria, a statement that has fueled fresh debate among football fans across the continent.
He said …
“I heard you saying earlier that we [South Africa] were rooting also for Nigeria.
“I want to make it very clear that I wish for them not to qualify [for the 2026 FIFA World Cup].”