Lesotho FA denies meeting with NFF over South Africa’s ineligible player
The head of the Lesotho Football Association (LeFA) has denied having any discussions with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) regarding South Africa allegedly fielding an ineligible player.
South Africa’s 2-0 win over Lesotho last Friday has come under review after LeFA and the NFF asked FIFA to investigate whether midfielder Teboho Mokoena was eligible to play in the match.
LeFA questioned Mokoena’s participation, claiming he had received yellow cards in previous matches, which could have ruled him out of the game against Lesotho.
Lesotho FA responds to claims of discussions with NFF
LeFA Secretary General Mokhosi Mohapi was asked by Newzroom Afrika if he had spoken with the NFF about the issue.
He responded: “I must be honest with you. If I were to talk to the Nigeria Football Federation, I would speak to Dr. Sanusi, the secretary general. But I have not spoken to him since we were in Egypt around March 9th, before the match was even played.”
Mohapi also revealed that he was first informed about the ineligible player by a non-Nigerian friend, rather than the NFF. After checking with his team manager, he confirmed that Lesotho had not fielded an ineligible player but suspected South Africa might have.
What happens if Lesotho’s appeal succeeds?
Despite their protest not being submitted on time, Mohapi remains hopeful about FIFA’s decision. He confirmed that LeFA has been in constant communication with FIFA regarding the issue.
If Lesotho’s appeal is successful, they will be awarded three points, moving them to nine points in the World Cup qualifying group. This would cut South Africa’s lead to 10 points, leaving them only three points ahead of Nigeria with four matches remaining.
