While teams await FIFA's decision over South Africa fielding an ineligible player in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, president Gianni Infantino has sent a message.

Nigeria and the Benin Republic are calling on the world's football governing body to sanction Bafana Bafana after Teboho Mokoena featured in a 2-0 victory over Lesotho.

The Mamelodi Sundowns striker had received yellow cards before the game in March; however, he was named in the starting line-up against the Crocodiles.

After eight rounds of matches, South Africa top the group with 17 points, three ahead of Benin Republic in second position, while Nigeria are third with 11 points.

While the Super Eagles' chances of qualification hang by a thread, Benin will be level on points should South Africa be sanctioned, per GOAL.

Stakeholders from the continent have criticised both FIFA and CAF for keeping mum over the situation as the qualifiers head into the final phase next month.

While Morocco and Tunisia have confirmed their place in next year's World Cup, Infantino stated that he is looking forward to other teams that will qualify from the continent.

The FIFA boss said on Instagram: "Thank you to all teams in Africa for participating in the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers.

"I look forward to seeing you resume your quest to reach 🇨🇦 Canada, 🇲🇽 Mexico and the 🇺🇸 United States next month."