The Super Eagles’ 2026 World Cup qualification campaign faces yet another twist as FIFA confirm disciplinary proceedings against South Africa for fielding an ineligible player in their 2-0 win over Lesotho back in March, Footynaija.com reports.
Teboho Mokoena, who scored in that game, should have been suspended after picking up yellow cards against Benin in November 2023 and Zimbabwe in June 2024.
Under FIFA rules, the bookings triggered an automatic one-match ban, making his appearance in Polokwane on the 21st of March a breach of regulations.
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In a letter dated 15 September 2025 and seen by South Africa’s public broadcaster, FIFA stated that both Mokoena and the South African Football Association (SAFA) are charged with violating a number of disciplinary codes.
The case has now been referred to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, with SAFA and the player given six days to respond.
If eventually indicted, South Africa would be forced to forfeit the result, handing Lesotho a 3–0 victory. Such a ruling would see Bafana Bafana drop to 14 points after eight matches, level with Benin but ahead on goal difference, while Lesotho would climb from six to nine points.
What this means for the Super Eagles
Crucially for Nigeria, who sit on 11 points alongside Rwanda, this development puts them back in contention for automatic qualification. The Super Eagles must win their remaining two matches and hope Hugo Broos’ men falter against Zimbabwe or Rwanda in October.
But the picture is further complicated by the fact that Nigeria and Benin, who are both chasing South Africa, must face each other in Group C’s last round qualification matches.
That fixture guarantees one of the two sides will drop points, and a draw could leave both sides struggling to close the gap if South Africa manage to steady themselves against Zimbabwe and Rwanda.
A Nigerian victory would drag Benin back into the pack, while a Beninese triumph would all but end the Super Eagles’ chances, regardless of any sanction against Bafana Bafana.
With Group C finely poised, the permutations remain wide open. FIFA’s disciplinary ruling could yet reshape the table dramatically, but Nigeria’s path to the 2026 World Cup will ultimately hinge on their ability to deliver on the pitch, particularly against Benin.
