The secretary-general of the Lesotho Football Association (LFA), Mokhosi Mohapi, has admitted that his federation did not officially file a protest against South Africa for fielding an ineligible player in their 2026 World Cup qualifier.

However, he insists that FIFA must still enforce its regulations for the integrity of the game.

South Africa, which currently leads Group C with 13 points, faces a possible three-point deduction after Teboho Mokoena played against Lesotho despite accumulating two yellow cards in previous qualifiers against Benin and Zimbabwe.

Bafana Bafana won the game 2-0 with goals from Relebohile Mofokeng and Jayden Adams, but if FIFA applies the standard penalty for fielding an ineligible player, their qualification hopes could take a serious hit.

While acknowledging that Lesotho failed to file the protest within FIFA’s official timeframe (two hours after the match and within 24 hours post-game), Mohapi told South African TV station Newzroom Afrika that he believes FIFA should act independently:

“If you look at article 8.3, which says they should have been automatically suspended, the ball is in FIFA’s court.

“It is up to them to make a decision that is consistent with what they have done in the past and what they should be doing in the future to ensure that the sport is played fairly,” Mohapi said.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is reportedly monitoring the situation closely, as a points deduction for South Africa would boost Super Eagles’ chances of qualifying for the World Cup.

However, Mohapi dismissed any notion that Lesotho’s actions were influenced by Nigeria’s interests:

“Whether they give us the three points or not is not a matter for consideration. The letter was sent on Tuesday, and we are in constant communication with FIFA and SAFA.

“There is no bad blood between us and SAFA. We do not even mean to allow ourselves to be drawn into the Nigerian aspiration of qualification. Let us all play the game on the field of play with strict adherence to the regulations,” he said.

With six games played, Nigeria sits fourth in Group C with 7 points, trailing South Africa (13 points), Rwanda (8 points), and Benin (8 points).

FIFA’s decision on the case could significantly impact the group standings and determine the fate of the African qualifiers.