We Will see What Happens Eric Chelle Reacts to SA Alleged use of Ineligible Player
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has reacted to reports that South Africa fielded an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in their 2-0 victory over Lesotho.
Nigeria’s qualification hopes in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers took a blow after a 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe on Tuesday.
The stalemate leave the Super Eagles fourth in Group C with seven points, six behind leaders South Africa.
However, the situation could change if FIFA rules against South Africa following Lesotho’s formal protest over Mokoena’s eligibility.
Addressing the controversy after Nigeria’s match, Chelle remained cautious, emphasizing that his focus remains on his team’s performance rather than external factors.
“I don’t want to tell you about that. I said yesterday we are focused on our game, so this is why I talked to my guys after the game,” Chelle told reporters.
However, he acknowledged that the potential loss of points for South Africa could reshape the standings, giving Nigeria a better chance of qualification.
“I am trusting them, and maybe if South Africa loses three points, the last game is against Rwanda, so we can pass this team, and after that, we have a game against South Africa.”
“If it is true, we will see what happens in the coming days.”
Should FIFA rule in Lesotho’s favour, South Africa’s points tally could drop to 10, leaving Nigeria three points behind with four matches still to play.
