2026 WCQ: FIFA clears South Africa over player ineligibility case, stirs controversy

FIFA has cleared South Africa of any wrongdoing following claims that the team fielded an ineligible player during a recent 2026 World Cup qualifier against Lesotho.

The decision came hours before South Africa’s Group C match against Nigeria in Bloemfontein, which ended in a 1-1 draw, keeping Bafana Bafana in contention for a World Cup spot.

According to FIFA, a win over Nigeria, coupled with a loss by Benin to Lesotho, would have secured South Africa’s qualification for the 2026 tournament.

FIFA announced the ruling on Tuesday via its official X handle.

The South African Football Association (SAFA) had faced potential sanctions, including points deduction or match forfeiture.

FIFA did not provide details of the allegation, which usually involves player registration, suspension, or nationality eligibility issues.

In previous qualifiers, teams such as Equatorial Guinea and Congo have been penalised for similar infractions, often with point deductions or disqualifications.

The ruling has sparked mixed reactions, with some analysts and rival federations questioning FIFA’s consistency in handling disciplinary cases.

South Africa, who last appeared in the World Cup as hosts in 2010, now aim to return to football’s global stage in 2026.

Nigeria, who have qualified for six of the last seven tournaments, face the prospect of missing out for the second consecutive World Cup.