FIFA has released its latest list of disciplinary sanctions for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, but notably absent is any mention of South Africa despite concerns over the eligibility of midfielder Teboho Mokoena.
Cyber Reporters reports that Nigeria and Benin have raised objections to Mokoena’s participation in a match against Lesotho.
They cited that Mokoena should have been suspended due to accumulated yellow cards.
According to FIFA rules, a player who accumulates two yellow cards in different matches is automatically suspended from the next match.
If applied, this rule would result in South Africa losing three points from their match against Lesotho, dropping them from 17 points to 14.
This would significantly impact the standings in Group C, where Nigeria currently sits third with 11 points.
The absence of any sanctions against South Africa in FIFA’s latest list is notable, particularly compared to the case of Equatorial Guinea, which was docked six points for fielding an ineligible player.
For Nigeria, the outcome of this matter could be crucial, as they face Lesotho and Benin in their remaining qualifiers.
A favorable outcome could improve their chances of securing a World Cup berth.
For now, South Africa remains atop Group C, with their fate in their own hands.
