On September 29, 2025, FIFA overturned South Africa’s 2-0 win over Lesotho in a March 2025 World Cup qualifier, awarding Lesotho a 3-0 victory.
South Africa fielded ineligible midfielder Teboho Mokoena, shifting Group C’s dynamics.
New Standings
Benin and South Africa now share 14 points after eight games, with Benin leading on goal difference. Nigeria and Rwanda follow with 11 points each, Lesotho has nine, and Zimbabwe, with four, is out.
Nigeria’s Chance
The ruling boosts Nigeria’s Super Eagles, who face Lesotho on October 10 in Polokwane and Benin on October 14 in Uyo.
Winning both could give them 17 points, potentially enough to top the group or qualify as a best runner-up.
Benin’s Strength
Benin, with a solid defense conceding just seven goals, faces Rwanda and Nigeria next. A win in Kigali could secure 17 points, needing only a draw against Nigeria to advance.
South Africa’s Setback
South Africa, rocked by the sanction, must win against Zimbabwe and Rwanda to reach 20 points and qualify. Any slip could let Benin or Nigeria overtake them.
Rwanda’s Fight
Rwanda, with 11 points, plays Benin and South Africa next. Two wins could yield 17 points, but their five goals scored may hurt in tiebreakers.
Lesotho’s Long Shot
Lesotho’s awarded win gives them nine points, but beating Nigeria and Zimbabwe is tough. Their -3 goal difference weakens their chances.
Why It Matters
With two games left, Group C is a tight four-way race. Nigeria’s +2 goal difference needs boosting to compete with Benin and South Africa.
What’s Next
October’s matches will decide Group C’s qualifier for the 2026 World Cup. Nigeria’s must-win games offer hope after a tough campaign.
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