Nigerians in South Africa warned not to celebrate too loudly if the Super Eagles beat Bafana Bafana in crunch Afcon semi-final

The advisory issued by the Nigerian high commission in Pretoria ahead of the semifinal match between South Africa and Nigeria in the African Cup of Nations has been deemed as “regrettable” by the department of international relations and co-operation (Dirco).

The commission had raised concerns about potentially inflammatory comments made by some South Africans against Nigerians living in South Africa.

Dirco expressed its disappointment at the advisory, stating that it seemed to create unnecessary tension between the two countries.

The department emphasized that there has been no history of soccer hooliganism among South Africans associated with matches between Bafana Bafana and the Super Eagles.

It further reassured Nigerian citizens that the sports-loving nation of South Africa posed no threat to them.

The Nigerian high commission had warned its citizens to avoid loud and provocative celebrations if the Super Eagles win the encounter.

The commission cited comments made by some South Africans, including threats against Nigerians cooking jollof rice before the match and showing pepper to them if Bafana Bafana lose.

While tensions can run high during competitive sporting events, it is important to remember that these matches should be an opportunity for friendly competition and camaraderie, rather than a source of conflict.

Both South Africa and Nigeria have a rich footballing history, and it is disappointing to see such inflammatory comments being made.

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