Nigeria could get unexpected World Cup boost after South Africa field ineligible player

NIGERIA'S Super Eagles could get an unexpected boost in their quest for 2026 World Cup qualification as key rivals South Africa face the risk of being deducted three points after their fielded an ineligible player in a recent match against Benin Republic.

As the race to qualify for next year's World Cup intensifies, things are heating up in Nigeria's group, which includes South Africa, Benin Republic, Rwanda, Zimbabwe and Lesotho. Over the weekend, Nigeria beat Rwanda 2-0, while group leaders South Africa beat Lesotho by the same scoreline at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane.

South Africa currently lead the group with 10 points, while Nigeria languishes in fourth place with just six points after five games. However, Bafana Bafana could be penalised for fielding an ineligible player in their 2-0 win over Lesotho

Midfielder Teboho Mokoena featured for South Africa in the match played in Polokwane but he had already received two yellow cards on matchday one against Benin and on matchday four against Zimbabwe, making him ineligible for the game.  According to Fifa rules, players who receive two yellow cards in separate matches are automatically suspended for the following game.

However, Mokoena played 82 minutes against Lesotho which is a clear violation of the disciplinary rules if confirmed. Although the Confederation of African Football (Caf) has yet to comment officially, the matter is likely to be investigated and if South Africa is found guilty, they could forfeit the three points gained from that win.

If Caf confirms that South Africa broke the rules, the result against Lesotho could be overturned, with a 3-0 victory awarded to the Lesothans. More importantly, South Africa would lose three vital points in Group C., which would drastically change the group standings and benefit Nigeria.

Tonight, Nigeria host  Zimbabwe on matchday six, while South Africa will be play away against Benin Republic. If Nigeria win tonight and South Africa get deducted three points, it will significantly enhance the Super Eagles' chance of qualifying for the World Cup.