Nigeria handed hope as South Africa docked points over ineligible player

South Africa’s bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been dealt a major setback after being sanctioned for fielding an ineligible player during their 2-0 victory over Lesotho in March.

Midfielder Teboho Mokoena, 28, featured in the match despite being suspended after accumulating two yellow cards.

FIFA’s disciplinary committee has ruled that the breach amounts to misconduct, awarding Lesotho a 3-0 forfeit win.

2026 WCQs: Nigeria handed hope as South Africa docked points over ineligible player — The current table standings after South Africa’s points deduction – BBC image

Sanctions imposed

In addition to losing the points, the South African Football Association (SAFA) has been fined 10,000 Swiss Francs ($12,500, £9,340), while Mokoena has been formally warned by FIFA.

Group C thrown wide open

The ruling has drastically altered the complexion of Group C in the African qualifiers.

South Africa, who previously led the group by three points, have dropped to second place behind Benin on goal difference. Lesotho, meanwhile, have been awarded three points.

Only the winners of each group are guaranteed a place at the 2026 World Cup in North and Central America, making the penalty a significant blow to Bafana Bafana’s hopes.

Opportunity for rivals

The decision also boosts the chances of Nigeria and Rwanda, who are now three points behind the top two.

Benin will face Rwanda and Nigeria in their final two qualifiers between 10 and 14 October, while South Africa must travel to Zimbabwe before hosting Rwanda.

The sanctions mean that South Africa’s qualification hopes now hang in the balance, with little margin for error in their remaining fixtures.

Source: Gistreel