- Lesotho vs. South Africa: The FIFA Dispute That Could Change World Cup Qualifying
- Fair Play or Missed Deadline? Lesotho Challenges South Africa’s Eligibility Error
- Could Nigeria Benefit? South Africa Faces Possible FIFA Points Deduction
The Secretary-General of the Lesotho Football Association (LFA), Mokhosi Mohapi, has said that their complaint against South Africa for using a player who was not supposed to play was not filed properly.
However, he believes that FIFA must still ensure fair play and protect the fairness of football competitions.
South Africa May Lose Important Points in Group C
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South Africa is currently number one in Group C of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
They might lose three points because they played Teboho Mokoena, who should have been suspended after getting two yellow cards in previous games.
This mistake was only discovered after the match, which has led to questions about whether FIFA will take action.
Lesotho’s Complaint May Not Be Accepted by FIFA
If FIFA takes away points from South Africa, it could change the rankings in the group.
However, Lesotho’s complaint may not work because it was not submitted within FIFA’s deadline.
Mohapi Accepts That the Complaint Had Mistakes
Speaking to Newzroom Africa, Mohapi said:
> “FIFA should do the right thing, but our complaint was not done the correct way.”
FIFA Should Suspend Players Automatically
Mohapi criticized FIFA’s system, saying:
FIFA should automatically suspend players instead of waiting for teams to complain.
This would stop problems like this from happening again.
Lesotho is Not Helping Nigeria Qualify
Even though Nigeria’s team could benefit if South Africa loses points, Mohapi made it clear:
“We only want fair play.”
Lesotho’s complaint is about fairness, not about helping Nigeria.
But if FIFA removes points, it could affect the group standings.
Also Read: 2026 WCQ: Super Eagles’ World Cup Chances Rise as South Africa Risk FIFA Punishment
Nigeria’s Position in the World Cup Qualifiers Group C
Right now, the rankings look like this:
1. Nigeria is in fourth place with seven points.
2. South Africa is in first place with 13 points, leading by six points.
3. If FIFA removes three points from South Africa, Nigeria may have a better chance to qualify.
Fans React on Social Media
🔹 @FootballAfrica tweeted:
“Lesotho’s complaint may be late, but should FIFA step in to keep things fair? This could change Group C!”
🔹 @MzansiSoccer, a South African fan, posted:
“This is not fair! The match is over, now they want to change the results? #BafanaBafana”
🔹 @NaijaSportsHub, a Nigerian football expert, tweeted:
“If FIFA follows fair play rules, Nigeria could benefit. But will they really take action?”
Key Points to Remember
✅ South Africa could lose three points because of a mistake.
✅ Lesotho’s complaint may not work because it was filed late.
✅ Nigeria might benefit but Lesotho says they are only fighting for fairness.
✅ Mohapi wants FIFA to automatically suspend ineligible players to prevent future issues.
What Do You Think?
Should FIFA change the standings, or should things stay the same?
Tell us in the comments below! 👇
