2026 World Cup: Nigeria banking on FIFA to deduct points from South Africa to revive qualification hopes – Shehu Dikko

Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup may not be over just yet. Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, says a decision by FIFA could change everything for the Super Eagles.

Right now, Nigeria are six points behind Group C leaders South Africa. Many fans thought the dream of playing in the next World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico was already over.

But there may still be hope.

Dikko revealed that FIFA is looking into a complaint about South Africa using an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, during their match against Lesotho in March. Reports say Mokoena had already received two yellow cards and should not have played.

Speaking to UK-based Nigerian journalist Austin Okon-Akpan, Dikko said, “It’s still in our hands, depending on what FIFA decides. If they take points away from South Africa, we could still qualify by winning our last four games.”

He added, “This is not about Africa. It’s FIFA rules, and we’ve seen these rules used before — even against us.”

If FIFA finds South Africa guilty and gives the points to Lesotho instead, the group standings will change. This would bring Nigeria much closer to the top of the group. Only the group winners go straight to the World Cup.

Nigeria missed the last World Cup in Qatar after losing to Ghana in a playoff. If they fail again, it would be the first time they miss two World Cups in a row since they first played in 1994.

Now, Nigerian fans must wait and hope that FIFA’s decision gives the Super Eagles a fresh chance to reach the 2026 tournament.