Former Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr remains optimistic about Nigeria and Benin Republic’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup despite South Africa’s commanding position in Group C.

Rohr, who now leads Benin’s national team, believes both countries could benefit from potential disciplinary action against South Africa. Reports suggest that Bafana Bafana may face a three-point deduction for fielding an ineligible player during their Matchday 5 victory over Lesotho.

“Both Benin and Nigeria will have a chance if South Africa lose three points for playing a player who is suspended,” Rohr stated confidently.

As it stands, South Africa lead Group C with 13 points after six matches, followed by Rwanda with eight points and Benin in third, also with eight points but an inferior goal difference. Nigeria sit fourth with seven points, while Lesotho and Zimbabwe are fifth and sixth with six and four points, respectively.

If FIFA enforces a points deduction, Lesotho would gain three points, moving them to nine and second place behind South Africa, who would drop to 10 points, leaving the group wide open.

Rohr also addressed Nigeria’s recent 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe, a result that disappointed many fans. He was unsurprised by the outcome, attributing Zimbabwe’s resilience to their quality. Meanwhile, he blamed Benin’s 0-2 home defeat to South Africa on the fatigue caused by Ramadan fasting affecting his players.

The controversy centers on South African midfielder Teboho Mokoena, who reportedly received yellow cards in two prior qualifiers, making him ineligible to play against Lesotho. FIFA regulations stipulate that a player who accumulates two yellow cards must serve a one-match suspension.

South Africa’s head coach Hugo Broos declined to comment on the situation. “It is an issue that will be resolved in the coming days,” said the Belgian tactician.

A source within the South African Football Association (SAFA) attributed the error to administrative negligence, suggesting that the team’s manager failed to notify Broos about Mokoena’s suspension.

However, concerns have arisen in Nigerian football circles regarding the timing of Lesotho’s protest. According to FIFA regulations, any eligibility protest must be lodged within 24 hours of the match’s conclusion, leaving uncertainty over whether Lesotho’s claim was submitted on time.

As the football world awaits FIFA’s decision, Nigeria and Benin Republic remain hopeful that the potential point deduction could reignite their World Cup ambitions.