Nigerian businessman and philanthropist Tony Elumelu has commended the performances of African nations at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying they represented the continent with pride despite falling short of lifting the coveted trophy.
Elumelu praised the resilience, determination, and quality displayed by the African teams throughout the tournament, noting that their performances demonstrated the continent’s growing influence in global football. He said the teams had earned the respect of football fans around the world through their spirited displays.
While celebrating Africa’s achievements, Elumelu expressed concern over the standard of officiating at the tournament. He urged FIFA to address what he described as inconsistent refereeing decisions, warning that poor officiating could undermine the credibility and integrity of the competition.
According to him, ensuring fair and consistent officiating is essential to maintaining confidence in the world’s biggest football tournament. He stressed that players and supporters deserve decisions that are transparent, impartial, and in line with the laws of the game.
Elumelu’s remarks come amid broader debates surrounding refereeing decisions during the 2026 World Cup, with several matches attracting criticism from fans, players, and football stakeholders over controversial calls.
Despite his concerns, Elumelu congratulated the African teams for their outstanding efforts and encouraged them to build on their performances as they continue striving for greater success on the global stage.
Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow The National Concord Blog Newsletter for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline – join now below!
