Relief for Nigeria as FIFA opens case against South Africa

Nigeria’s hopes of making the 2026 FIFA World Cup have received an unexpected boost after world football governing body FIFA opened disciplinary proceedings against the South African Football Association (SAFA) and Bafana Bafana star Teboho Mokoena.

According to SABC, the case stems from South Africa’s 2–0 victory over Lesotho on March 21 in Polokwane, where Mokoena was fielded despite being suspended. The midfielder had already picked up two yellow cards in the qualifiers – against Benin in November 2023 and Zimbabwe in June 2024 – which should have ruled him out of the clash.

In a letter dated September 15, FIFA confirmed that both the player and SAFA face charges for breaching disciplinary rules by fielding an ineligible player. The matter has now been referred to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, with SAFA and Mokoena given six days to respond.

If found guilty, Bafana could forfeit the match, handing Lesotho a 3–0 victory on paper. Such a decision would dramatically shake up Group C, cutting South Africa’s lead and dragging Nigeria right back into contention.

At the moment, Hugo Broos’ men sit top of the group with 14 points, two clear of Benin, but a forfeit would see them drop points and leave the race wide open. Lesotho would move up to nine points, still fifth but within touching distance of Nigeria and Rwanda (11 points each).

That means the Super Eagles’ fate is still alive, as they must now beat Rwanda and Lesotho in October while hoping Bafana slip in their remaining fixtures.

SAFA is yet to issue an official response.