National Teams
2026 World Cup Qualifier: Nigeria rivals Lesotho vows FIFA protest if South Africa fields Mokoena
By Dayo Awoniyi
Fresh controversy has erupted in Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying group after the Lesotho Football Association (LEFA) issued a stern warning to South Africa over the eligibility of star midfielder Teboho Mokoena, Nigeria Footballng reports.
LEFA Secretary General Mokhosi Mohap declared on Wednesday that the Crocodiles will formally protest to FIFA if Bafana Bafana include Mokoena in their squad list for the upcoming qualifiers, which is expected to be announced on Friday.
The Lesotho FA argues that Mokoena, despite his extensive representation of South Africa at senior level, is ineligible to participate due to what they describe as “unresolved registration issues.”
Though the exact details remain unclear, LEFA insists they have solid grounds to challenge his inclusion and are prepared to escalate the matter if ignored.
“We want to make it very clear,” Mohap warned. “If South Africa lists Teboho Mokoena in their squad, we will not hesitate to lodge an official protest. The rules must be applied fairly, and we will protect the integrity of this qualification process.”
The Lesotho official further alleged that Mokoena’s absence in a previous fixture was not due to disciplinary reasons, but a deliberate omission — a claim they intend to use in their argument before FIFA.
“The game he missed against Benin was because he was dropped from the team not because of the suspension, so, the moment we saw his name on the team sheet, we will lodge a protest to FIFA.”
This development has already created tension in Group C of the African qualifiers, which also features Nigeria, Benin Republic, and Rwanda. With points at stake and every result crucial, the potential legal battle could have far-reaching consequences on the group standings.
South Africa have yet to respond publicly to Lesotho’s threat, but reports indicate that the South African Football Association (SAFA) still intends to include Mokoena, who has been a key part of coach Hugo Broos’ midfield setup.
Meanwhile, Nigeria — set to host Rwanda this week — are closely monitoring the situation. The Super Eagles are aware that any dispute involving South Africa could indirectly affect their own qualification prospects, especially if points are docked or results overturned.
With Friday’s squad announcement looming, all eyes are on SAFA’s decision regarding Mokoena — one that could either ease tensions or ignite a full-blown crisis in Group C.
