The Super Eagles of Nigeria squad
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has rejected the decision by the Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) to appoint South African referee Tom Agbongila for their World Cup play-off match against Gabon.
In the list of officials for the game scheduled for November 13, 2025, FIFA announced that the 33-year-old Agbongila will be assisted by Angola’s Santos Doz (Assistant Referee 1) and fellow South African Thusi Granville (Assistant Referee 2).
Assigned to the VAR room are Ahmad Imthaze of Mauritius, Makalima Zennith of South Africa, and Packuita Gynquela of Mauritius. The referee assessor is Adjovi Hugues-Alain from Benin Republic, while Prince Kai of Sierra Leone will serve as Match Commissioner.
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However, an official who spoke to Nigerian media outlet The Guardian on condition of anonymity stated that the NFF believes the referee selection is a deliberate attempt to sabotage Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes.
The individual explained that an official from South Africa cannot be entrusted to handle Nigeria’s playoff game because the Bafana Bafana’s were in the same group with the Super Eagles.
“It is as if someone at FIFA is plotting to ensure Nigeria does not qualify for the World Cup. FIFA allowed South Africa to play all but their matches against Nigeria and Benin Republic on home soil, giving them an undue advantage over us.
“Now, they want to complete the job by appointing South Africans for a match as important as our World Cup play-off against Gabon. We will let the whole world know what is happening,” the NFF official said.
SB/JE
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