South African sports minister has stirred more controversy in the heated rivalry with Nigeria by clearly coming out to say he wishes another team and not the Super Eagles to qualify for next year’s World Cup.
Super Eagles did South Africa a big favour by beating Benin for Bafana Bafana to seal automatic qualification to the World Cup.
However, sports minister Gayton Mckenzie was not impressed and he said as much.
“I want them to lose. Nigeria must not go to the World Cup. Another country must go,” he fired.
“It’s not personal. They don’t like us, we don’t like them.
“I give you the energy you give me.”
Despite being docked three points and three goals, South Africa won Group C ahead of Nigeria with 18 points from 10 rounds of matches.
The Super Eagles finished second with 17 points and will now have to navigate two Playoffs to reach the 2026 World Cup.
