+ 6 ways the decision could reshape Nigeria’s path to 2026 World Cup qualification
The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has sanctioned the South African Football Association (SAFA) for fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in the 2026 FIFA World Cup preliminary match against Lesotho played on 21 March 2025.
In a statement released on Monday, FIFA confirmed that South Africa breached Article 19 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (FDC) and Article 14 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Preliminary Competition Regulations by featuring the player, who was not eligible for selection.
As a result, FIFA has awarded the match to Lesotho with a 3–0 scoreline, overturning the original result.
In addition to the forfeiture, SAFA has been ordered to pay a fine of CHF 10,000, while Teboho Mokoena has received an official warning from the world football governing body.
According to FIFA, the parties involved have been notified of the decision and have ten days to request a motivated decision, which, if requested, will be published on its website.
The ruling, however, remains subject to appeal before the FIFA Appeal Committee, in line with the relevant provisions of the Disciplinary Code.
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South Africa fielded Teboho Mokoena for the game in Polokwane when the midfielder should have served a one-game ban for getting yellow cards in two previous qualifying games.
If the decision is upheld, South Africa’s points tally in Group C will drop from 17 to 14, the same points as second-placed Benin Republic, leaving their qualification hopes hanging in the balance.
The ruling has boosted Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the World Cup, as the Super Eagles and Rwanda are three points behind South Africa with two games to go in October.
Lesotho now has nine points from eight matches.
6 ways the decision could reshape Nigeria’s path to World Cup qualification:
1. With the deduction, South Africa drop from first to second in CAF Group C, pushing Benin to the top spot on goal difference. This shuffle directly benefits Nigeria, who were sitting in third place with 10 points.
2. Nigeria now has a renewed opportunity to grab the sole qualifying spot from the group. The punishment to South Africa has effectively closed the gap, making the race tighter and more winnable for the Super Eagles.
3. If Nigeria wins all remaining matches, including a crucial showdown with Benin, they could finish with 17 points. That tally may be enough to top the group but only if other results go their way.
4. The upcoming fixture against Benin is now a potential group decider. A win would not only boost Nigeria’s points but also damage a direct rival’s chances, making it a must-win for the Super Eagles.
5. While South Africa’s misstep helps, Nigeria’s qualification isn’t guaranteed. Experts warn that every match counts, and the team must stay focused. Slip-ups could still cost them dearly in a group that’s now more competitive than ever.
6. How Group C looks after South Africa’s point deduction
Benin – 14 pts +4
South Africa – 14 pts +3
Nigeria – 11 pts +2
Rwanda – 11 pts +0
Lesotho – 9 pts -3
Zimbabwe – 4 pts
With the road to the 2026 World Cup wide open again, it’s up to the Super Eagles to take flight, or fall short.
Credit: TVC News
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