2026 World Cup: Nigeria’s chances brighten as South Africa faces FIFA sanction
Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup may receive a major boost as South Africa faces an imminent points deduction for fielding an ineligible player during a qualifier against Lesotho in March.
A top football official revealed that the sanction is certain and only awaits formal announcement by FIFA. “It is now just a question of when the announcement will be made by FIFA, but South Africa will forfeit the match against Lesotho for fielding an ineligible player,” the official stated.
According to him, the evidence is clear and even the South African authorities have acknowledged their error. The expected sanction is a deduction of three points and three goals.
Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, recently expressed optimism that the development would significantly enhance Nigeria’s qualification hopes. He noted that South Africa’s mistake could be a game-changer for the Super Eagles.
South Africa currently top the qualifying group with 13 points from six matches, while Nigeria trail with seven points. A three-point deduction would narrow the gap between the two teams to just three points.
This would revive Nigeria’s chances heading into the crucial rounds of qualifiers scheduled for September and October.
In September, the Super Eagles will host second-placed Rwanda in Uyo. A few days later, they will face South Africa in a highly anticipated showdown that could determine the eventual group winner.
The winner of each group in the African qualifiers secures automatic qualification to the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
