2026 World Cup Qualifiers: FIFA’s sanction on South Africa was inevitable – Former Nigeria star Dimeji Lawal

Former Nigeria international Dimeji Lawal says he was never in doubt that FIFA would sanction South Africa over the Teboho Mokoena eligibility saga.

The world governing body this week docked Bafana Bafana three points in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers after the Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder featured in a win against Lesotho despite being suspended for accumulated yellow cards.

The ruling comes more than six months after the controversial fixture, which had sparked strong protests from Nigeria, Benin and Lesotho, all of whom demanded punitive action.

Speaking to Brila.net, Lawal insisted the outcome was expected, even if the decision took time.

“I knew from the beginning that FIFA would not compromise its rules,” he said. “When South Africa made that mistake, I was certain they would forfeit those three points and three goals.”

Lawal, however, cautioned against complacency, stressing that Nigeria’s fate still rests on its ability to perform on the pitch.

“I don’t get excited about boardroom points. One thing is South Africa losing three points, but another is for us to win our remaining games,” he added. “The bottom line is whether we can prepare properly and secure victories in those last two matches.”