The Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) has appointed Pierre Ghislain Atcho of Gabon as the centre referee for the crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying clash between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and South Africa’s Bafana Bafana.
Atcho, considered one of Africa’s most promising referees, will be assisted by his compatriots:
Boris Marlaise Ditsoga – Assistant Referee I
Amos Abeigne Ndong – Assistant Referee II
Cregue Fleury Moukagni – Fourth Official
In addition, FIFA designated Olivier Safari Kabene from the Democratic Republic of Congo as referee assessor, while Mike Letti of Uganda will serve as match commissioner.
Match Details
The high-stakes matchday eight fixture will take place on Tuesday, September 9, at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein, South Africa. Both teams are under pressure, as the outcome could significantly shape their chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Super Eagles, who have endured an inconsistent campaign, will aim to bounce back, while Bafana Bafana, backed by their home supporters, will be looking to assert dominance against their long-standing rivals.
Build-Up Fixture
Before facing South Africa, the Super Eagles are scheduled to play Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on Saturday, September 6, at 5 p.m.
