Sport
Chelle urges FIFA to decide on Mokoena’s ineligible match before facing South Africa
Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has urged FIFA to take swift action over the ongoing controversy surrounding South Africa’s Teboho Mokoena. He warns that the delay is creating unnecessary tension ahead of Nigeria’s crunch World Cup qualifier.
Mokoena, a key midfielder for Bafana Bafana, is accused of playing in March’s qualifier against Lesotho when he should have been suspended after picking up multiple yellow cards. South Africa went on to win that game 2–0, a result that strengthened their position at the top of Group C.
If FIFA rules that Mokoena was indeed ineligible, South Africa could face sanctions, including a possible three-point deduction or the overturning of that result. This decision could significantly alter the group standings and improve Nigeria’s chances of qualification.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the clash with South Africa, Chelle said, “I’m just a coach, I lead my team. But there’s an organisation called FIFA, and they have to handle this matter. They need to act quickly so everyone knows where they stand.”
Despite this, he insists that his focus remains on the pitch. “My concern is my players. They are focused, and we need to concentrate on our own performance, not the noise outside the game,” he said.
Ghanaian Referee, Daniel Laryea, who officiated the Nigeria vs Morocco game in AFCON gets interviews and shared his experience.
The referee reveals how it was his first time in a semi final and was kind of nervous. “I’ve been to three AFCON tournaments, but this is the first time I’ve been in a semi-final.”
“So when coaches choose you for that game, they know your skills and what you can do. But of course, you feel a little nervous because of the level of the match.”
Nigerian Footballer, Bright Osayi-Samuel , react to match as Super Eagles lose to Morocco.
The player calls out CAF for their referee appointment. He shares how the Ghanaian Referee was tough on the field and made bad choices.
“One thing I would say is that the referee was really bad. I’m not saying that was the reason we lost. He is making really bad choices and it’s really tough to watch because we have referees like this in big games like today.
He then praises Morocco for a good game “But Morocco did really well.”
Super Eagles Coach, Eric Chelle speaks and shared why Nigeria lost the AFCON match to Morocco.
It can be noted that the match was held on the 14th of January, 2026. Nigeria lost the match with a draft in the penalties, 4-2.
During a recent interview, Chelle shared his observations about the match and shared why they lost.
“From a technical point of view, the Super Eagles weren’t at the same level as we displayed in our other matches.”
“I don’t want to say the reason was fatigue, but the truth is that we lacked movement and power.”
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