Olaleye Idowu
Former South Africa striker Benni McCarthy has opened up on the rivalry between his country and Nigeria.
Speaking to SportyTV, McCarthy admitted that Nigeria and South Africa used to be close and supportive in the past.
Nigeria and South Africa recently played against each other in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, and the two teams played a 1-1 draw.
“I don’t know what this unwanted rivalry between South Africa and Nigeria is. We used to be very close. We used to be supportive,” McCarthy said.
“For me, I support everything Africa. I’m South African, but if I see anything African, I support it because it’s my continent. I am proud of that.
“I understand when we play against each other, when there is a rivalry on the day of the match, but after the game we embrace each other because we’re Africans.”
