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Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has addressed the growing controversy surrounding South Africa’s World Cup qualifying campaign after reports emerged that Bafana Bafana may have fielded an ineligible player, Footynaija.com reports.
Nigeria’s hopes of topping Group C in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers took a hit following a frustrating 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Tuesday.
Victor Osimhen’s 74th-minute header had seemingly secured all three points for the Super Eagles, only for Zimbabwe to snatch a dramatic equaliser in stoppage time.
South Africa risks a three-point deduction for fielding an ineligible Player in their game against Lesotho.
— Africa Facts Zone (@AfricaFactsZone) March 25, 2025
Teboho Mokoena had two yellow cards in two games against Benin and Zimbabwe.
South Africa are currently at the top of Group C in the FIFA World Cup African Qualifiers. pic.twitter.com/HQ1A9d4SP9
However, Nigeria’s qualification chances could be given a lifeline amid revelations that South Africa, who lead the group with 13 points, might lose three points due to a potential rule violation.
Reports confirm that Teboho Mokoena, a key figure in South Africa’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign, should have been suspended for their 2-0 win over Lesotho after accumulating two yellow cards in previous matches. The Lesotho Football Association has since lodged an official complaint with FIFA and CAF, seeking clarification on the matter.
When asked about the situation following Nigeria’s draw against Zimbabwe, Chelle remained diplomatic, refusing to be drawn into the controversy. Instead, he emphasized his focus on his team’s performances.
“I don’t want to tell you about that. I said yesterday we are focused on our game, so this is why I talked to my guys after the game,” Chelle stated. “I told them to look forward to second place. They did a great job during the ten days, so they deserve this qualification.”
⚽️ ℝ ℂℙ ℚℝ ⚽️#SABCSport journalist Velile Mnyandu explains the Bafana Bafana’s administrative saga around Teboho Mokoena.
— SABC Sport (@SABC_Sport) March 25, 2025
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While acknowledging the possibility of South Africa losing points, the Malian tactician insisted that Nigeria must remain focused on their upcoming fixtures.
“I am trusting them, and maybe if South Africa loses three points, the last game is against Rwanda, so we can pass this team, and after that, we have a game against South Africa. If it is true, we will see what happens in the coming days.”
Should Lesotho’s appeal be successful, South Africa’s tally could drop to 10 points, bringing them within touching distance of Nigeria, who currently sit three points behind with four matches remaining.
