Nigeria’s Super Eagles just got an unexpected boost in their quest for a 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket and it came from a FIFA disciplinary ruling which sanctioned the South African Football Association for fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in the South Africa match against Lesotho played on 21 March 2025 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers.

According to FIFA disciplinary committee, fielding Mokoena means breaching article 19 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (FDC) and article 14 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Preliminary Competition Regulations.

TVC had reported that the FIFA Disciplinary Committee has ruled that the representative team of South Africa must forfeit the match in question, resulting in a default score of 3-0.

The ruling also ordered SAFA to pay a fine of CHF 10,000 to FIFA, while Teboho Mokoena has been issued a warning.

However, here’s how the decision to dock South Africa three points could reshape Nigeria’s path to qualification:

READ ALSO: BREAKING: FIFA Disciplinary Committee Sanctions South Africa

Read Also

1. Group Standings Shake-Up: South Africa Slip to Second
With the deduction, South Africa drop from first to second in CAF Group C, pushing Benin to the top spot on goal difference. This shuffle directly benefits Nigeria, who were sitting in third place with 10 points.

2. Super Eagles Back in Contention
Nigeria now has a renewed opportunity to grab the sole qualifying spot from the group. The punishment to South Africa has effectively closed the gap, making the race tighter and more winnable for the Super Eagles.

3. The Magic Number: 17 Points
If Nigeria wins all remaining matches, including a crucial showdown with Benin, they could finish with 17 points. That tally may be enough to top the group but only if other results go their way.

4. All Eyes on the Nigeria vs. Benin Clash
The upcoming fixture against Benin is now a potential group decider. A win would not only boost Nigeria’s points but also damage a direct rival’s chances, making it a must-win for the Super Eagles.

5.  It’s Still a Tight Race
While South Africa’s misstep helps, Nigeria’s qualification isn’t guaranteed. Experts warn that every match counts, and the team must stay focused. Slip-ups could still cost them dearly in a group that’s now more competitive than ever.

How Group C looks after South Africa’s point deduction

  •  Benin – 14 pts +4
  • South Africa – 14 pts +3
  • Nigeria – 11 pts +2
  • Rwanda – 11 pts +0
  • Lesotho – 9 pts -3
  • Zimbabwe – 4 pts

With the road to the 2026 World Cup wide open again, it’s up to the Super Eagles to take flight, or fall short.