WCQ Twist: Nigeria's Hopes Rekindled as South Africa Penalized for Ineligible Player

In a dramatic turn of events on the road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, South Africa’s Bafana Bafana have been hit with a crucial setback that could reshape Group C’s qualification battle.

FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee on Monday confirmed sanctions against South Africa for fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, during their qualifier against Lesotho on March 21, 2025. The decision comes after investigations revealed violations of Article 19 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code and Article 14 of the 2026 World Cup Preliminary Competition Regulations.

As punishment, South Africa has officially forfeited the match, with a 3-0 victory awarded to Lesotho. The ruling strips Bafana Bafana of three valuable points, dropping them from 17 to 14 — a shift that sees them slip into second place behind Benin Republic on goal difference.

This disciplinary blow injects new life into Nigeria's World Cup qualifying campaign. The Super Eagles, now just three points adrift of South Africa with two matches left to play, suddenly find themselves within striking distance of qualification.

However, the story isn’t over yet. The decision remains open to appeal before the FIFA Appeal Committee, leaving room for potential twists ahead.

As the race for World Cup qualification intensifies, all eyes will be on the final fixtures — and whether Nigeria can seize the unexpected opportunity now before them.