Nigerians hopeful of World Cup qualification as FIFA deducts 3 Points from South Africa

Nigerian football fans have a renewed wave of optimism following FIFA's decision to deduct three points from South Africa in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier Group C standings.

The sanction was announced based on South Africa fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, during their 2-0 victory over Lesotho on March 21, 2025.

The FIFA Disciplinary Committee overturned the result to a 3-0 forfeit, docking the three points and imposing a CHF 10,000 fine on the South African Football Association (SAFA), while issuing a warning to Mokoena.

The outcome has breathed new life into Nigeria's campaign, offering the Super Eagles a glimmer of hope to secure a spot in the expanded 48-team tournament.

Before the deduction, South Africa held a commanding position in Group C but are now tied with Benin Republic on 14 points, three ahead of Nigeria and Rwanda.

Following the decision, Nigerian football fans took to social media to celebrate.

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Most fans were excited that the Super Eagles now have a fighting chance to still pick up an automatic ticket to the World Cup.

They then charge Eric Chelle and the team not to give up hope of qualifying until the games are done.

See reaction below

There are only two matches remaining for each team, Nigeria faces Lesotho away and Benin at home, South Africa plays Zimbabwe away and Rwanda at home, while Benin takes on Rwanda away and Nigeria away.