By Njoku Chijioke
Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have received a potential lifeline as Group C leaders, South Africa, face possible sanctions for fielding an ineligible player.
South African midfielder Teboho Mokoena, who had accumulated two yellow cards in separate matches earlier in the qualifiers, was ineligible to feature in their fixture against Lesotho.
However, he played in the match, which ended in a 2-0 victory for South Africa.
According to FIFA regulations, any player who receives two yellow cards in separate games must serve a one-match suspension.
If found guilty, South Africa could forfeit the match, resulting in a three-point deduction and a 3–0 loss awarded to Lesotho.
Such a penalty would significantly reshape Group C standings and provide a major boost to the Super Eagles, who are currently six points behind South Africa with four qualifying matches remaining.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is reportedly monitoring the situation closely and may push for enforcement of FIFA’s disciplinary rules.
However, any action depends on whether a formal protest was lodged within the required timeframe.
FIFA’s decision is pending, and an official announcement is expected in the coming days.
