The race for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the African qualifiers has taken a dramatic turn after FIFA slammed sanctions on South Africa for fielding an ineligible player in their recent 2–0 victory over Lesotho.
The player at the center of the controversy is Teboho Mokoena, who featured in the encounter despite not being eligible for selection.
Following a review, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee ruled against the South African Football Association (SAFA), awarding a 3–0 win to Lesotho in line with international football regulations.
As a result, South Africa’s hard-earned three points and two goals have been struck off, reducing their total from 17 points to 14.
Following the decision, South Africa now sit on 14 points, still in first place leading Benin Republic with same 14 points by superior goal difference.
Nigeria remain third with 11 points, level with Lesotho, who were the major beneficiaries of FIFA’s ruling.
Lesotho, who had previously lost the match, were awarded three points and three goals, pushing them into joint third place with Nigeria.
The development has thrown Group B wide open, with two rounds of matches remaining before Africa’s World Cup qualifiers are decided.
Major setback for SA
For South Africa, the sanction is a major setback, having looked almost certain to seal qualification.
They now face mounting pressure from Benin, Nigeria, and Lesotho, all of whom are still in contention.
Nigeria, who have been inconsistent in the campaign, see this as a lifeline to revive their World Cup hopes.
With two matches left, the Super Eagles must win both and hope results elsewhere favor them.
Lesotho, on the other hand, will take confidence from their unexpected promotion up the table, knowing that qualification is now within reach.
Meanwhile, football analysts say the punishment should serve as a warning to all federations to strictly adhere to FIFA’s eligibility rules to avoid costly administrative errors.
The last two fixtures in the group are now expected to be fiercely contested, as all four top teams still stand a realistic chance of clinching the sole World Cup ticket.
