New Standings for Nigeria’s World Cup Group Emerge After FIFA’s Points Deduction from South Africa
Mokoena had received two yellow cards in earlier qualifiers against Benin and Zimbabwe, which should have triggered a one-match suspension. Instead, he played 82 minutes, forcing FIFA to void the result and award Lesotho a 3-0 victory.
The ruling overturns the Group C table. Benin now climb to first place with 14 points, edging ahead of South Africa on goal difference. Nigeria and Rwanda sit close behind on 11 points each, turning the group into a four-way battle.
South Africa have been fined CHF 10,000 and may appeal within 10 days, but the standings stand for now.
Upcoming fixtures are now high-stakes showdowns. South Africa face Zimbabwe and Rwanda, while Benin meet Rwanda and Nigeria. Nigeria, who also benefit from the decision, must now defeat Benin at home on October 14 to stay alive.
One administrative mistake has reshaped the entire group — and possibly the road to the 2026 World Cup.
Following the deduction of South Africa’s points by FIFA for fielding an ineligible player, this is what the table looks like with two matches to the end.
