The South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) responded to a statement from the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria regarding a warning issued to Nigerian football fans in South Africa. The Nigerian embassy had advised caution in celebrating should the Super Eagles triumph over Bafana Bafana, which DIRCO deemed regrettable as it could potentially create tension between South African and Nigerian citizens. DIRCO emphasized that there have been numerous encounters between Bafana Bafana and the Super Eagles in the past, without any incidents of soccer hooliganism.
They expressed confidence that the sports-loving nation of South Africa poses no threat to Nigerian citizens. The department encouraged diplomatic representatives to approach DIRCO to address any concerns about diplomatic matters, as they have done in the past in response to similar advisories. The response was attributed to spokesperson Clayson Monyela and was conveyed through DIRCO’s official Twitter account.
Monyela also addressed the Nigerian embassy’s statement, describing it as unfortunate and regrettable. He mentioned key players from both teams and the anticipated challenges they may face in the upcoming match.