In a dramatic twist that could significantly alter the landscape of Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualification hopes, a senior official has revealed that FIFA will dock South Africa three points and three goals for fielding an ineligible player in their March qualifier against Lesotho.
The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told Score Nigeria, “It is now just a question of when the announcement will be made by FIFA, but South Africa will forfeit the match against Lesotho for fielding an ineligible player. The facts are very clear and even South Africa has admitted their blunder.”
The expected sanction would see South Africa’s 13-point haul reduced to 10, blowing open the Group C standings of the African qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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Nigeria, currently stuck on seven points after six rounds, would find themselves just three points off the top, with key fixtures still to come.
What this means for Super Eagles
The Super Eagles, who face Rwanda in Uyo in September, could close the gap completely with a win. Days later, they travel to face South Africa in what could be a group-deciding showdown.
Only the group winners qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
The expected ruling could shift the momentum just in time for Nigeria to stage a strong comeback in the final stretch of qualifiers. An official announcement from FIFA is anticipated in the coming weeks.
