Benin have intensified pressure on FIFA and CAF to sanction South Africa for fielding ineligible midfielder Teboho Mokoena in a World Cup qualifier against Lesotho.
Mokoena played in South Africa’s 2-0 win on March 21 despite receiving two yellow cards in previous qualifiers. FIFA rules state that a suspended player’s involvement triggers a 3-0 forfeit and point deduction.
Lesotho filed the first protest immediately. Nigeria backed the claim weeks later. Benin joined the calls in September, escalating the row with coach Gernot Rohr demanding urgent intervention.
Rohr has said the rules are “clear” and accused governing bodies of undermining integrity. He insists South Africa must lose three points and forfeit the result.
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The Nigeria Football Federation dismissed rumours that FIFA had cleared South Africa, stressing on September 11 that no official ruling has been made.
Group C implications
South Africa currently top Group C with 17 points after eight games. Benin trail with 14, while Nigeria and Rwanda both have 11.
If deducted, South Africa would fall level with Benin on 14 points. Lesotho would gain three points, potentially changing the group ahead of the October finale.
South Africa’s football association has admitted the oversight but insists it was an administrative error. Coach Hugo Broos has urged focus on the pitch while waiting for FIFA’s decision.
Wider reactions
Benin’s protests have gained traction on social media, with Rohr’s comments widely shared. Nigerian supporters have echoed demands for sanctions, calling the delay unfair.
Lesotho’s FA has also threatened further action if the issue remains unresolved. Many said FIFA’s silence weakens trust in the qualification process.
The controversy recalls Cape Verde’s 2014 disqualification for a similar eligibility breach, a case resolved swiftly. Fans also say FIFA’s delay risks tarnishing transparency ahead of the expanded 2026 World Cup.
As of September 12, no ruling has been announced. Pressure continues to mount with Group C’s outcome still hanging in the balance.
