FIFA deducts three points from South Africa over ineligible player
Benin Republic head coach, Gernot Rohr, has reacted to FIFA’s recent decision to deduct three points from South Africa in the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, saying the ruling, while logical, has come too late to avoid disruption to the qualification process.
FIFA announced on Monday that South Africa’s Bafana Bafana would forfeit their 1–1 draw against Lesotho from March 21, 2025, after fielding an ineligible player. As a result, the match has now been awarded as a 3–0 win to Lesotho.
The sanction significantly impacts the standings in Group C, where Benin Republic, South Africa, Nigeria, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, and Lesotho are competing for qualification to the next round.
Benin Republic now top of Group C
The decision has pushed Benin Republic to the top of the table, level on 14 points with South Africa but ahead on goal difference.
Reacting to the development in an interview with Brila FM, Coach Rohr expressed concern about the timing of the ruling, despite agreeing with the logic behind the penalty.
“The decision of FIFA to deduct three points from South Africa is a logical one, but it’s coming very late—six months already that they had to do it,” Rohr said.
“Now we have two games to play, two very difficult games away in Rwanda and against Nigeria in Uyo.”
Rohr expresses concern over fairness in fixture scheduling
Rohr also raised issues about what he considers an imbalance in the number of home games South Africa will play compared to other teams.
“South Africa play their last two games at home, which means they will play seven home matches out of ten because Lesotho and Zimbabwe play their home matches in South Africa,” Rohr noted.
While the matches may be designated as away games on paper, their location within South Africa arguably provides Bafana Bafana with a home advantage.
Benin faces tough path to qualification
With only two games remaining in the group stage, Rohr emphasized that qualification remains difficult and his team must stay focused.
“But we will try to qualify and remain humble,” he said. “We understand the challenges, but we are motivated and working hard.”
Benin will face Rwanda away before heading to Uyo, Nigeria, to take on the Super Eagles in what could be a decisive match for both teams.
Group C standings after FIFA ruling
As of the latest update, the Group C standings are:
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Benin Republic – 14 points (+GD)
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South Africa – 14 points
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Nigeria – 12 points
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Rwanda – 11 points
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Zimbabwe – 7 points
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Lesotho – 6 points
With only a few matches left to play, the group remains tightly contested. Nigeria, Rwanda, and South Africa are all within striking distance of the top spot, depending on results in the final round of games.
FIFA’s late decision sparks debate
FIFA’s delayed action has led to debates about the effectiveness of the disciplinary process in high-stakes competitions. Critics argue that such decisions should be made in a timely manner to avoid disruption to tournament dynamics and ensure fairness.
While the ruling benefits Benin Republic, Rohr’s measured response underlines the need for transparency and consistency in football governance, especially with World Cup qualification at stake.
