DIRCO criticises Nigeria High Commission for 'unnecessary' tension around Bafana vs Super Eagles match

JOHANNESBURG - The International Relations Department has criticised the Nigerian High Commission for needlessly causing alarm and tension ahead of the Super Eagles' Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) match against Bafana Bafana.

South Africa will take on Nigeria in a bid to clinch a spot in the final on Wednesday night.

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In a statement, the embassy cautioned Nigerian football fans living in South Africa to refrain from “riotous or provocative celebrations” should their team emerge victorious in Wednesday night's AFCON semifinal.

The Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria said it issued the warning following "veiled threats" by South Africans online.

In an apparent effort to prevent xenophobic incidents, the embassy has also advised the Nigerian community to be cautious with their words, choose their viewing locations wisely, and avoid excessive celebrations if the Super Eagles secured victory.

DIRCO spokesperson Clayson Monyela criticised the advisory, deeming it regrettable as it appears to stir up unnecessary alarm and tension.

“The South African national soccer team, Bafana Bafana, has played against their Nigerian counterparts, the Super Eagles, on many occasions, and there has been no history of soccer hooliganism among South Africans associated with the outcome of such encounters.

"As we have done in the past with similar alarming advisories, we call on the diplomatic representatives to approach DIRCO to address any concerns about diplomatic matters.”

The match between the two footballing giants kicks off at 7pm.