‘They have to lose the three points’ — Ex-Super Eagles coach calls on FIFA to punish South Africa

Benin head coach and former Super Eagles manager Gernot Rohr has demanded that FIFA and CAF take swift action against South Africa for allegedly fielding an ineligible player during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

The German tactician insists that the rules are clear and that justice must be applied if Group C is to remain fair and competitive.

Rohr’s frustration boiled over after Benin’s narrow 1-0 win against Zimbabwe, a result that left his side still battling to keep pace with South Africa and Nigeria.

At the centre of the controversy is South Africa midfielder Teboho Mokoena, who should have been suspended for yellow card accumulation but still featured against Lesotho.

Rohr, speaking to Mega Sports, argued that the failure of CAF and FIFA to intervene quickly undermines the integrity of the competition.

“South Africa won against Lesotho? Okay, but the match that matters is the first leg, where they have to lose the three points,” Rohr said, adding that it was “incomprehensible” that no decision had yet been taken.

South Africa currently sit at the top of Group C ahead of their match against Nigeria, but Rohr’s comments highlight the possible shake-up a points deduction could cause.

If FIFA enforces the rules, South Africa could be docked three points, bringing Benin within touching distance of the group leaders.

Rohr pointed out that Benin now has 11 points and would be only two behind South Africa if the punishment is applied.

The coach emphasised that both Benin and Nigeria are left in limbo as they await clarity on the matter, with qualification for the World Cup hanging in the balance. For Rohr, the delay in enforcing the rules is not just frustrating, it also threatens to derail the entire qualification campaign.