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.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup may have come to an end, but fans are still talking about its historic entertainment lineup.
From the opening ceremony to the first-ever FIFA World Cup halftime show and the closing ceremony, the tournament featured performances from some of the biggest artists in the world.
Some of the performers included:
- Madonna
- BTS
- Shakira
- Burna Boy
- Justin Bieber
- Chris Martin (Coldplay)
- Jennifer Hudson
- Robbie Williams
- Nicole Scherzinger
- Laura Pausini
- Post Malone
- PS22 Chorus
- Gustavo Dudamel and orchestra
Football legend Thierry Henry has reacted to Lionel Messi’s emotional response after Argentina lost the 2026 FIFA World Cup final to Spain.
It can be recalled that Spain defeated Argentina to lift the 2026 World Cup trophy. While Spain celebrated their victory, cameras captured Messi in tears after the final whistle.
Henry said Messi’s reaction showed just how much the game still means to him.
“Look at what it means to him. If you ever had any doubt about whether the guy still has any fire in his belly, look at him. Look at what it means.”
He added “You won already. And look at the guy. Look at the passion, desire and the love that he has for his country and how much he puts into it.”
Football legend Rio Ferdinand has shared his prediction ahead of the FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina.
While many have backed different teams to lift the trophy, Ferdinand said some fans have underestimated Argentina’s quality.
He said “I find it difficult to bet against Argentina. They have demonstrated remarkable character, determination, and resilience. I believe people have been somewhat disrespectful by calling them an average team; they are not.”
He continued “I think it is inappropriate and disrespectful. If you are saying that, you clearly do not watch enough football, as they are an excellent team, and in challenging situations, they become even better and stronger. However, I do believe Spain will win the match.”
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