Nigeria’s hopes for 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification have been revived due to South Africa’s potential deduction of three points for fielding an ineligible player. This controversy centers on Teboho Mokoena’s eligibility, potentially reducing South Africa’s lead in Group C. Nigeria, currently trailing by six points, awaits the consequences of Lesotho’s protest against South Africa.
Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been revitalized following South Africa’s potential loss of three points in their standings. The South African team, Bafana Bafana, is under scrutiny for allegedly fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, during their recent match against Lesotho. If the Lesotho Football Association’s protest to FIFA is successful, South Africa could face a deduction of points, placing Nigeria in a favorable position for qualification.
Currently, Nigeria trails behind South Africa by six points in Group C, raising the stakes for the Super Eagles as they face only four matches remaining to improve their standing. Despite Nigeria’s setbacks following a draw against Zimbabwe, the situation surrounding South Africa offers a window of opportunity. Specifically, Mokoena’s participation in the match is contentious as FIFA’s rule 63 indicates that he should have been suspended after accumulating two yellow cards in earlier matches.
Despite the rules, FIFA has yet to issue a statement addressing this issue, while Lesotho’s football officials have formally inquired about Mokoena’s yellow cards. Lesotho FA Secretary-general Mokhosi Mohapi emphasized the importance of adhering to rules and stated, “We want those points.” This situation is complicated by Nigeria’s past experience with similar sanctions, where they were penalized for fielding an ineligible player during the 2018 World Cup qualifiers. Fortunately for Nigeria, that error did not affect their qualification status.
If the points are deducted from South Africa, reducing their total to 10 points, it would greatly improve Nigeria’s odds of advancing. Currently, South Africa stands at 13 points, with Nigeria lurking six points behind, necessitating a remarkable turnaround in the final group matches. The repercussions of this potential ruling could significantly affect South Africa’s qualifying progress in the ongoing campaign for the prestigious tournament.
Nigeria stands poised for a potential boost in their World Cup qualifying campaign, contingent upon the outcome of the Lesotho Football Association’s protest against South Africa’s alleged rule violation concerning ineligible player Teboho Mokoena. This situation highlights the critical importance of compliance with FIFA regulations and the competitive nature of the World Cup qualification process. As Nigeria seeks to close the gap on South Africa, the ramifications of any ruling against the Bafana Bafana could be pivotal in determining the future of both teams in the tournament.
Original Source: www.thisdaylive.com
