Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been handed a dramatic lifeline after reports emerged that South Africa have internally accepted a looming three-point deduction by FIFA.

The development stems from Bafana Bafana’s controversial use of ineligible midfielder Teboho Mokoena during their 2-0 win over Lesotho on matchday five of the qualifiers.

According to FIFA regulations, Mokoena should have served a suspension after accumulating two yellow cards in previous matches.

However, due to what has been described as a “technical oversight,” South Africa head coach Hugo Broos fielded the midfielder regardless.

While Lesotho did not lodge an official protest — reportedly out of regional solidarity as fellow members of COSAFA — FIFA is expected to enforce its rules irrespective of the oversight.

South African outlet Soccer Laduma reports that the South African Football Association (SAFA) has already accepted the error internally and is preparing to move forward without the three points.

“We have to win every remaining game to ensure qualification,” a source told the publication. “An error was made, and as hard as it is to accept, we cannot go back. The points are gone.”

The potential sanction would significantly alter the complexion of Group C, where Nigeria currently sit fourth with seven points from six matches.

The Super Eagles have endured a turbulent campaign so far, drawing four of their six matches and playing under three different head coaches during the qualifiers.

Former boss José Peseiro oversaw uninspiring draws against Lesotho and Zimbabwe. His successor, Finidi George, managed a 1-1 draw against South Africa before losing to Benin Republic — a result that led to his resignation.

Current head coach Eric Chelle briefly raised hopes with a 2-0 win over Rwanda in Kigali, only for the team to slump again in a home draw against Zimbabwe.

With four qualifiers remaining, Nigeria’s path to the World Cup remains challenging. They must aim for maximum points while hoping rivals falter. South Africa’s potential deduction could be pivotal in that race.

The two nations are set to clash again on September 5, 2025, in what now looks to be a decisive encounter.