The Super Eagles hopes of making it to the 2026 FIFA World Cup have received a major boost after FIFA deducted three points from South Africa for fielding an ineligible player. 

The ruling has reshaped Group C and opened the door wider for the Super Eagles.

Why South Africa lost points

FIFA punished South Africa for using midfielder Teboho Mokoena in their qualifier against Lesotho, even though he was suspended after picking up two yellow cards in earlier games. 

South Africa had won that match 2–0, but FIFA overturned the result, awarded Lesotho a 3–0 victory, and fined the Bafana Bafana.

This decision dropped South Africa from first to second in Group C, and the standings now look tighter, with Nigeria back in the race to qualify.

What this means for Nigeria

The Super Eagles are currently in third place with 11 points. Before FIFA’s decision, their path looked complicated, but now Nigeria can once again control their own destiny.

• If Nigeria wins all remaining games, including the crucial clash against Benin on October 14, they could finish the group stage with 17 points. That total might be enough to secure first place and direct qualification.
• A win against Benin is especially important, because not only will it give Nigeria points, it will also weaken a direct rival for the top spot.
• Nigeria’s other fixtures against Lesotho and Benin will also be decisive. Strong results in these games will improve both their points and goal difference.

Play-offs remain a lifeline

Even if Nigeria does not finish top, there is still another route. According to CAF’s format, the four best second-placed teams across all nine groups will move into play-offs. From there, one more African nation will qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

This means the Super Eagles must not only aim for victories, but also focus on winning by good margins to boost their goal difference. Every goal could matter if qualification comes down to second-place rankings.

What to expect

South Africa will still try to appeal FIFA’s punishment, but until a new ruling is made, the group has been blown wide open. Benin, South Africa, and Nigeria are all fighting for the single automatic ticket.

For the Super Eagles, the task is simple on paper but tough on the pitch, win the remaining matches and keep hopes alive. 

If they can beat Benin on October 14 and avoid mistakes against Lesotho, Nigeria could be on the flight to the United States, Mexico, and Canada for the 2026 World Cup.