Rohr Urges FIFA to Deduct Points from South Africa Over Ineligible Player in World Cup Qualifier

Former Super Eagles coach and current Benin Republic manager, Gernot Rohr, has called on FIFA to take decisive action against South Africa for allegedly fielding an ineligible player during their 2–0 victory over Lesotho in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers last March.

Rohr, whose Benin team is in the same qualifying group as South Africa, insists the global football governing body should deduct three points and three goals from Bafana Bafana in line with competition rules.

The controversy stems from the inclusion of South African midfielder Teboho Mokoena in the fixture, despite him having accumulated two yellow cards—one against Benin in November 2023 and another against Zimbabwe in June 2024.

According to FIFA regulations, this should have automatically resulted in a one-match suspension, making Mokoena ineligible for the Lesotho game. Rohr argued that the violation was clear-cut and should result in the match being forfeited in favour of Lesotho with a 3–0 scoreline.

Speaking to reporters, Rohr expressed frustration over what he described as FIFA’s undue delay in making a ruling. He stressed that with the next round of qualifiers approaching, all teams in the group deserve clarity on the standings to prepare effectively. “It is a simple matter—there are rules for a reason. FIFA should act quickly so we can all move forward,” he said.

FIFA has reportedly informed the South African Football Association (SAFA) about the potential infraction and the possibility of sanctions. However, no official decision has been announced.

A ruling in Lesotho’s favour could significantly alter the Group C standings, affecting qualification prospects for teams including Nigeria, Benin, and Rwanda.

The situation remains a developing story, with CAF World Cup qualifying tensions intensifying as the race for the 2026 tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico heats up.