South African football supporters are growing increasingly anxious after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) dismissed Equatorial Guinea’s appeal against a FIFA-imposed sanction for fielding an ineligible player during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, DECENCY GLOBAL NEWS reports.
The West African nation had been docked six points—three each from victories against Namibia and Liberia—after it was found that striker Emilio Nsue was not eligible to represent the national team at the time. Nsue scored the decisive goals in both 1-0 wins last November.
However, in May, FIFA overturned both results and awarded 3-0 technical victories to Equatorial Guinea’s opponents.
The ruling stemmed from the revelation that Nsue had not received the required clearance to switch international allegiance from Spain, where he previously featured at youth level. Despite having represented Equatorial Guinea for over a decade, FIFA declared his participation invalid, a decision upheld by CAS following the appeal.
This verdict has major implications not just for Equatorial Guinea’s qualification hopes but also for South Africa, who may face a similar punishment.
The South African Football Association (SAFA) is currently under FIFA investigation for fielding Teboho Mokoena in a Group C fixture against Lesotho in March.
Mokoena had received two yellow cards in previous matches and, by regulation, should have served a suspension. If FIFA rules against South Africa, the three points earned in the win over Lesotho could be rescinded.
Such a decision would significantly alter the dynamics of Group C. South Africa, currently on 17 points, would drop to 14—level with Benin. Nigeria, now in third place with 11 points, could then close the gap in the final rounds, especially as they are set to face both Lesotho (away) and Benin (at home in Uyo).
For Namibia, the CAS ruling keeps them in second place in their group, preserving their opportunity to qualify for the continental playoff round.
For South Africa, however, the suspense continues.
