‘We used to be supportive’ - South African legend reveals he does not understand the rivalry between Super Eagles and Bafana Bafana

The rivalry between the two countries has moved into the national team, as both sides were paired during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

The first leg of the tie saw the Bafana Bafana claim a 1-1 draw at Uyo, with the return leg also ending in a 1-1 draw.

Both teams were vying for a World Cup ticket, but South Africa came out on top to claim the automatic ticket despite being docked three points and three goals in the group.

McCarthy commented on the unusual online unity between Nigerian and South African fans, who found themselves cheering for each other as the qualification scenarios unfolded. 

He expressed confusion over the recent animosity that has developed between the two footballing nations.

"I don't know what is this unwanted rivalry between South Africa and Nigeria. We used to be very close. We used to be supportive," he said on SportyTV.

"For me, I support everything Africa. I am South African but if I see anything African, I support. I encourage because it's my continent, I'm proud of that."

"I understand when we play against each other, when there's a rivalry on the day of the match, then your support for Africa goes out of the window. I support my country but after the game we embrace each other because we're Africans.”

After defeating Gabon 4-1 in their first playoff match, Nigeria's World Cup qualification campaign ended with a loss to DR Congo. 

The Super Eagles drew 1-1 in regular time but were defeated 4-3 in the penalty shootout. Attention now shifts to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.