Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has weighed in on the controversy surrounding South Africa’s potential points deduction after they fielded an ineligible player in their 2-0 victory over Lesotho during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The issue has sparked discussions within African football circles, with many awaiting FIFA's decision on whether to penalize South Africa for the alleged rule violation.
Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes took a significant hit after they conceded a stoppage-time equalizer against Zimbabwe in Uyo, resulting in a frustrating 1-1 draw. The Super Eagles had entered the match with high expectations, knowing that a victory would boost their chances of securing a spot at the World Cup. However, the inability to hold onto their lead has now left them in a difficult position as the qualifiers progress.
The result meant that the Super Eagles have now accumulated just six points from six matches, a tally that puts them under immense pressure. With only a few games remaining, Nigeria must find a way to secure maximum points in their upcoming fixtures to keep their qualification hopes alive. The team’s inconsistent performances so far have raised concerns among fans and analysts, especially as they were expected to dominate the group.
Victor Osimhen, Nigeria’s star striker, had given the team a much-needed breakthrough in the 74th minute with a powerful header that found the back of the net. The three-time African champions seemed to be on course for a crucial victory that would have revitalized their qualification campaign. However, their inability to maintain concentration in the closing minutes proved costly, allowing Zimbabwe to snatch a dramatic equalizer in stoppage time.
The late goal left the home fans at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo visibly frustrated, as it marked yet another missed opportunity for Nigeria to assert their dominance in the group. Defensive lapses and a lack of game management in the final moments have been recurring issues for the team, and this result only added to the growing frustration among supporters.
Despite this setback, Nigeria’s hopes of qualification could receive an unexpected boost following reports that Group C leaders South Africa may be penalized with a points deduction. The controversy stems from South Africa’s use of Teboho Mokoena, a key player in Hugo Broos’ squad, who was allegedly ineligible to play against Lesotho. According to reports, Mokoena had accumulated two yellow cards earlier in the qualifiers, which should have ruled him out of the match against Lesotho.
However, the midfielder was still included in the starting lineup, playing a significant role in South Africa’s 2-0 win. In response, the Lesotho Football Association has formally lodged a complaint with both FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), demanding an investigation into the matter. If their appeal is successful, South Africa could face a reduction in points, which would have major implications for the group standings.
When questioned about the ongoing situation, Nigeria’s head coach, Eric Chelle, chose not to dwell on external factors. Instead, he emphasized his focus on improving his own team’s performances, making it clear that he does not want to be distracted by off-field controversies.
“I don’t want to tell you about that. I said yesterday we are focused on our game, so this is why I talked to my guys after the game,” Chelle told reporters in a post-match interview. “I am trusting them and maybe if South Africa loses three points, the last game is against Rwanda so we can pass this team and after that, we have a game against South Africa.”
The Super Eagles coach acknowledged that while the potential points deduction could benefit Nigeria, he does not want his team to rely on such external developments. Instead, he stressed the importance of winning their remaining matches to take full control of their own qualification destiny. Chelle noted that if FIFA rules in favor of Lesotho’s appeal, it would shift the group dynamics, potentially opening a new qualification path for Nigeria.
“If it is true, we will see what happens in the coming days,” Chelle added. “But our focus remains on our own games because that is what we can control.”
If FIFA ultimately decides to deduct points from South Africa, their total would be reduced from 13 to 10 points, putting their qualification position in jeopardy. Meanwhile, Lesotho, who currently have six points, would be awarded three additional points, moving them up to nine. This development could significantly alter the standings in Group C and potentially provide Nigeria with a crucial lifeline in their World Cup qualification campaign.
For the Super Eagles, this means their remaining fixtures against Rwanda and South Africa will be even more critical. With a potential shift in the group standings, Nigeria must capitalize on any advantage they receive, ensuring they secure maximum points in the upcoming matches to keep their World Cup dreams alive.
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