Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup may not be over yet, according to Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission. Despite currently trailing Group C leaders South Africa by six points, Dikko believes that an upcoming disciplinary decision from FIFA could alter the qualification landscape—and hand the Super Eagles a potential lifeline.
The key lies in a pending investigation by FIFA into South Africa’s use of midfielder Teboho Mokoena in a World Cup qualifier against Lesotho in March. Mokoena was reportedly suspended after accumulating two yellow cards in previous matches but was nevertheless fielded in the 2-0 victory.
FIFA Investigating Alleged Rule Breach
Speaking with UK-based Nigerian journalist Austin Okon-Akpan, Dikko confirmed that FIFA is currently reviewing the case, and a decision could come soon.
“With the way things are, it’s still in our hands, depending on the outcome of the disciplinary decision that’s expected soon,” Dikko said. “If the decision goes as everyone expects—and we ourselves have faced a similar fate before—it means we can still control our own future. If we win our remaining four games, we can make it.”
He added: “The rules are the rules; it’s not about Africa, it’s FIFA. There are no two ways about it. Otherwise, anyone could field a player and then say it was a simple error.”
What the Ruling Could Mean for Group C
If FIFA confirms the breach and imposes a standard three-point deduction—along with a reversal of the 2-0 result—South Africa’s grip on the top spot could loosen significantly. Such a decision would also hand Lesotho a 3-0 win on paper, reshuffling the group standings and offering Nigeria a way back into contention.
With four qualifiers still to play and only group winners assured of automatic qualification, the outcome of FIFA’s disciplinary review could dramatically impact the race for North America 2026.
Nigeria’s Qualification Hopes Still Alive?
The Super Eagles have endured a challenging qualifying campaign and face the prospect of missing back-to-back World Cups for the first time since making their debut at the 1994 tournament in the United States. They narrowly missed out on the 2022 edition in Qatar after a playoff loss to Ghana, and their current form has left fans disillusioned.
But the unfolding situation offers a renewed sense of hope.
A favorable verdict from FIFA could transform Nigeria’s World Cup narrative—from near-elimination to a renewed battle for top spot in the group. However, it would still require the team to win all four remaining matches—no easy feat given their inconsistency in recent fixtures.
All Eyes on Zurich
For now, Nigeria waits.
FIFA has yet to issue a formal decision, but the outcome could redefine Group C and reshape the Super Eagles’ qualification journey. Until then, Dikko’s message is clear: the dream is not over, and the rules could still work in Nigeria’s favor.