‘Not normal’ – Ex-Super Eagles coach questions FIFA’s integrity over Bafana points deduction delay

Former Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr has urged FIFA and CAF to intervene swiftly in what he describes as a clear case of rule-breaking by South Africa during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. 

His remarks came after Benin’s 1-0 win over Zimbabwe, a result that lifted them into contention in Group C but did little to mask the uncertainty surrounding the table.

At the heart of the dispute is South Africa’s use of midfielder Teboho Mokoena in their victory over Lesotho. Mokoena, according to match records, should have been suspended due to an accumulation of yellow cards. Despite this, he featured in the fixture, prompting calls from rival teams for disciplinary measures. A potential three-point deduction looms, yet no ruling has been made.

“It’s very clear. The rules are very, very clear,” Rohr, now in charge of Benin, told Mega Sports. “We don’t know why FIFA and CAF haven’t yet decided to take the points away from them. It’s not normal. We don’t know where we stand.” 

Super Eagles' qualification hinges on South Africa’s misfortune 

Nigeria, six-time World Cup participants, find themselves in an uneasy position. Since debuting at USA ’94, they have only missed two tournaments, but this campaign has tested their resilience. 

With seven matches played, the Super Eagles sit third with 10 points, trailing Benin by one and leaders South Africa by six.

That cushion, however, could be cut in half should the governing bodies punish South Africa. 

A deduction would reopen the race, giving the Super Eagles fresh impetus in their pursuit of a return to the global stage after missing Qatar 2022. 

Against that backdrop, the September 9 showdown in Bloemfontein now carries added weight, with three-time AFCON champions Nigeria facing South Africa in what could be a straight shootout and perhaps the defining night of Group C.