Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico have received a boost after the FIFA Disciplinary Committee sanctioned the South African Football Association (SAFA) for fielding an ineligible player. As a consequence, FIFA has awarded Lesotho a 3-0 victory by forfeiture, deducted three points from South Africa, and imposed a fine of CHF 10,000 (Swiss Francs) on SAFA. The development could significantly affect South Africa’s qualification hopes, with the forfeited points likely to alter the group standings in the African qualifiers. FIFA confirmed that all parties have been formally notified of the disciplinary decision. The ruling remains subject to appeal before the FIFA Appeal Committee.