The future of Group C in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers remains uncertain as the case involving South Africa drags on.
This is because a midfielder Teboho Mokoena, played in Bafana Bafana’s 2–0 win over Lesotho back in March despite being ineligible due to accumulated yellow cards.
Nigeria and Benin have since demanded that FIFA take action, with both countries calling for South Africa to be docked three points. Such a decision could dramatically shift the group standings and alter the qualification picture.
FIFA’s silence raises questions
It has now been more than six months since the incident, yet FIFA has not released an official ruling. For many football fans, this silence is unusual and frustrating, particularly as the outcome could reshape the entire qualification race.
Raymond Hack, a South African attorney and former member of FIFA’s disciplinary committee, has offered some insight into why the delay might be happening. According to him, the process is not always straightforward.
Disciplinary cases often involve a lengthy review of match reports, written complaints, and evidence before any verdict is reached. Hack admitted, however, that it is surprising FIFA has allowed the matter to drag on for this long without clarity.
Why South Africa could escape punishment
While the case is still under review, there are suggestions that South Africa might avoid the heavy sanction fans are demanding.
One reason is that FIFA typically weighs not only the evidence of wrongdoing but also procedural issues, such as whether protests were filed on time or if certain technicalities apply.
If FIFA rules that South Africa did not deliberately gain an unfair advantage, or that the complaint was not submitted properly, Bafana Bafana could walk away with their points intact.
What it means for the qualifiers
Until FIFA makes an announcement, Group C remains on edge. A possible deduction of three points would throw the table wide open, giving Nigeria and Benin renewed hope.
On the other hand, if South Africa escapes punishment, it will solidify their position in the race to reach the World Cup.