Nigeria’s World Cup Hopes Revived As South Africa Faces FIFA Sanction

Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup could receive a major boost after Group C leaders, South Africa, reportedly broke a FIFA rule.

Currently, South Africa leads the group with 10 points from five games. Benin Republic follows in second place with eight points, while Rwanda is third with seven points. Lesotho sits in fifth place with five points, and Zimbabwe is at the bottom with three points. Nigeria, struggling in fourth place, has only six points after five games. The Super Eagles had a rough start, failing to win their first four matches before finally securing a victory against Rwanda in Kigali.

South Africa may be in trouble as they risk losing points for violating FIFA rules. According to OwnGoal Nigeria, Bafana Bafana fielded Teboho Mokoena in their 2-0 victory over Lesotho, even though he was supposed to be suspended. Mokoena had received a yellow card in the first game against Benin Republic and another against Zimbabwe in matchday four. This meant he was ineligible for matchday five, yet he played against Lesotho.

This mistake by South Africa’s coach, Hugo Broos, and his team could make their World Cup qualification even harder. If FIFA rules against them, they may lose points, which would change the group standings and increase Nigeria’s chances of qualification.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is urging FIFA to penalize South Africa for their mistake. If FIFA deducts points from South Africa, they would drop to seven points—just one point ahead of Nigeria. This would open the door for the Super Eagles to challenge for a qualification spot.

Additionally, if the points deduction is enforced, Lesotho would rise to the top of the table, tying with Benin Republic at eight points. This could give them extra motivation to push for their first-ever World Cup appearance.

Interestingly, Nigeria once found itself in a similar situation. During the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, the Super Eagles unknowingly fielded Shehu Abdullahi in a 1-1 draw against Algeria, even though he was suspended. FIFA ruled the match in Algeria’s favor, awarding them three points and three goals. However, Nigeria had already secured qualification for the tournament, so the penalty did not affect their chances.

Recently, Nigeria had started calculating their chances of making it to the World Cup after South Africa’s 2-0 win over Lesotho. That victory helped Bafana Bafana maintain a four-point lead over Nigeria, even after the Super Eagles secured their first win under new coach Eric Chelle.

However, with South Africa now at risk of losing points, Nigeria’s qualification hopes may be revived. The coming days will be crucial as FIFA decides on the fate of Group C’s standings.

Send Us A Press Statement Advertise With Us Contact Us

 And For More Nigerian News Visit GWG.NG