FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee has awarded Lesotho a 3-0 victory over South Africa in a March 2025 qualifier, nullifying South Africa’s original 2-0 win.
The decision, announced on September 29, 2025, came after FIFA found South Africa used ineligible midfielder Teboho Mokoena, who should have been suspended for yellow cards.
Updated Group Table
After eight matches, Benin and South Africa share 14 points, with Benin ahead on goal difference.
Nigeria and Rwanda sit on 11 points each, Lesotho now has nine, and Zimbabwe trails with four, already eliminated.
Nigeria’s Opportunity
The sanction opens the door for the Super Eagles. Nigeria faces Lesotho in Polokwane on October 10 and Benin in Uyo on October 14.
Two wins would lift them to 17 points, possibly securing first place or a top runner-up spot.
Benin’s Edge
Benin’s defense, conceding just seven goals, gives them an advantage. They play Rwanda away, then Nigeria at home.
A Kigali win gets them to 17 points, needing only a draw in Uyo to qualify.
South Africa’s Challenge
South Africa must beat Zimbabwe and Rwanda to hit 20 points. A stumble could let Benin or Nigeria pass them, especially with a level head-to-head against Nigeria.
Rwanda’s Push
Rwanda, tied with Nigeria at 11 points, meets Benin and South Africa next. Two victories could reach 17, but their low goal tally of five might hurt tiebreakers.
Lesotho’s Boost
Lesotho’s gifted win puts them at nine points, but defeating Nigeria and Zimbabwe seems unlikely. Their -3 goal difference makes advancement tough.
Group C Drama
With two rounds left, Group C is now a four-team fight. Nigeria’s +2 goal difference requires big wins to match Benin and South Africa’s better records.
Road to Qualification
The winner qualifies directly; the runner-up may advance as a best second. October’s games will decide Group C’s 2026 World Cup fate, with Nigeria needing maximum points.
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