2026 W/Cup Qualifier: Crisis Rocks Nigeria's Group As Lesotho Threaten South Africa Over Mokoena

2026 W/Cup Qualifier: Crisis Rocks Nigeria's Group As Lesotho Threaten South Africa Over Mokoena

Sampson Adedeji 

A fresh wave of controversy has hit Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying group after the Lesotho Football Association (LEFA) issued a stern warning to South Africa over the eligibility of midfielder Teboho Mokoena, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Lesotho’s Secretary General Mokhosi Mohap stated 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 insists that Mokoena, who has represented South Africa extensively at senior level, is ineligible to feature in the qualifying campaign due to what they claim are “unresolved registration issues.” The details remain unclear, but LEFA maintains that they have grounds to challenge his inclusion and are prepared to escalate the matter if ignored.

“We want to make it very clear,” the Secretary General 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 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", he told soccerbeat.

The development has 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 tussle could have far-reaching consequences on the standings.

South Africa are yet to respond publicly to Lesotho’s threat, but reports suggest that the South African Football Association (SAFA) intends to include Mokoena, who has been a key figure in Hugo Broos’ midfield setup.

Nigeria, who are set to host Rwanda this week, are monitoring the situation closely, as any dispute affecting South Africa could indirectly impact the Super Eagles’ qualification chances.

With Friday’s squad announcement looming, all eyes will be on SAFA’s decision regarding Mokoena a move that could either defuse or escalate a brewing crisis in the group.