By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
Nigeria’s path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup could become easier amid reports that South Africa may be penalised for fielding an ineligible player during their 2-0 victory over Lesotho.
South African midfielder Teboho Mokoena had reportedly played in the match despite accumulating two yellow cards in the qualifiers—one against Benin on matchday one and another against Zimbabwe on matchday four.
FIFA and CAF regulations state that any player who receives two yellow cards in separate games must serve a one-match suspension.
However, Mokoena was on the pitch for 82 minutes against Lesotho, potentially breaching this rule.
The controversy has raised concerns about South Africa’s adherence to qualification rules.
While the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has not made an official statement, an investigation is expected.
If South Africa is found guilty, they could lose the three points earned from the match.
FIFA’s disciplinary code mandates that players accumulating two yellow cards across different matches must miss the next fixture. Playing while ineligible could lead to disciplinary action, including match forfeiture.
In Mokoena’s case, his prior bookings should have ruled him out against Lesotho. If CAF confirms the rule violation, South Africa could forfeit the match, awarding Lesotho a default 3-0 victory.
If South Africa loses three points, it would significantly impact Group C’s standings, potentially giving Nigeria an advantage in the race for World Cup qualification.
With CAF’s decision pending, Nigerian football fans will be eagerly awaiting the outcome, which could reshape the Super Eagles’ chances of securing a spot at the 2026 World Cup in North America.