Controversy arises in Group C following allegations against South Africa as 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers enter their final phase next month, according to a report by goal
Some African teams, including Nigeria and Benin Republic, have petitioned FIFA to deduct three points from Bafana Bafana of South Africa for fielding ineligible player, a midfielder Teboho Mokoena during their match with Lesotho which they win with 2-0 margin.
Mokoena, who had already accumulated yellow cards prior to the encounter, was named in the starting line-up against the Crocodiles, sparking calls for sanctions.
South Africa currently top the group with 17 points, three ahead of Benin in second place, while Nigeria sit at the third position with 11 points.
Fortunately for the petitioner if FIFA dock points from South Africa, Benin could be at the same points with Bafana Bafana which will significantly alter the qualification chances.
Despite mounting criticism from stakeholders over the silence of both FIFA and CAF on the issue, the FIFA president Gianni Infantino has chosen a diplomatic approach, encouraging African teams to stay focused on their campaigns.
“Thank you to all teams in Africa for participating in the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers,” Infantino wrote on Instagram. “I look forward to seeing you resume your quest to reach Canada, Mexico, and the United States next month.”
While Morocco and Tunisia have already qualified for next year’s tournament, the fate of Group C remains shaking and uncertain.
The Nigeria’s coach, Eric Chelle, stressed that the Super Eagles must win their last two matches and hope for favorable results elsewhere.
Speaking after their 1-1 draw with South Africa in Bloemfontein, Chelle said:
According to Chelle,
“We are professionals, and these players want to win the next two games. Football can change quickly—many things can happen in a month. We just need to analyze this game and prepare well for the last two matches.”
