Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have received a boost after the world football governing body, FIFA, sanctioned South Africa for fielding an ineligible player in a recent qualifier.
In a statement released on Monday, FIFA confirmed that South Africa’s 2–0 victory over Lesotho on March 21 in Polokwane has been overturned and replaced with a 3–0 defeat.
The disciplinary decision follows a violation of Article 19 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, after midfielder Teboho Mokoena was fielded despite accumulating two yellow cards in previous matches against Benin and Zimbabwe.
The ruling has reshaped the standings in Group C of the African qualifiers. South Africa now drop to second place behind Benin on goal difference, while Lesotho remain fifth. The development provides a lifeline for Nigeria, who now have a stronger chance of advancing in the race to secure a World Cup ticket.
FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee also imposed a fine of 10,000 Swiss francs (about $12,536) on the South African Football Association. The body retains the right to appeal the decision before the FIFA Appeals Committee.
