AFCON 2023: Nigeria’s Warning to Fans Living in South Africa Ahead of Semi Final Sparks Outrage

• Nigeria's embassy warned of possible tensions before the AFCON semi-final vs South Africa
• Clayson Monyela slammed the advisory, citing the peaceful history between the two nations
• The Head of Public Diplomacy also resolved to address this matter with Nigerian authorities

A warning issued by Nigeria's diplomatic mission, ahead of the impending Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023 semi-final clash between the Super Eagles and Bafana Bafana, has sparked outrage.

The embassy cautioned Nigerians residing in South Africa against engaging in any confrontations before, during, or after the match - even if the West African nation was to advance.

It also expressed concerns over online statements suggesting potential confrontations centred on 'cooking jollof rice' and playful banter involving 'pepper' if Bafana Bafana were to win.

Set for tonight, February 7, the remarks made by the embassy regarding alleged inflammatory comments by some South Africans towards Nigerians have only heightened the tension.

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Clayson Monyela, the Head of Public Diplomacy at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation in South Africa, has slammed the advisory as 'unnecessary and regrettable'.

He highlighted the absence of previous violence in encounters between Bafana and the Super Eagles, pledging to address the issue with Nigerian authorities through diplomatic channels.

"The history of matches between Bafana Bafana and the Super Eagles shows no association with soccer hooliganism. South Africans pose no threat to Nigerians. We will address this matter diplomatically with Nigerian authorities," Monyela stated, as reported by Far Post.

Broos denies Bafana retirement speculation

Meanwhile, South Africa's head coach, Hugo Broos has denied retirement rumours following the 2023 AFCON.

Despite speculation before the tournament that his tenure with the Bafana team might mark the end of his coaching journey, the 71-year-old, whose career spans over five decades, remains resolute.

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"Not at all, why should I think of that? We’re still not at the end," said Broos, as quoted by iDiski Times.

With just two games standing between them and potentially securing a second AFCON title, the Belgian coach remains undeterred, even as some doubt their chances as genuine contenders.

Ronwen Williams warns Nigeria ahead of semi-final

Sports Brief also reported that South Africa goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams warned the Super Eagles not to be overconfident as 'statistics do not win football games'.

The two teams will meet at the Stade de la Paix in Boauke. Nigeria ran out 2-0 winners thanks to a Tijani Babangida brace the last time they met in the AFCON semi-finals.