2026 World Cup qualifier: Sodje blasts NFF for celebrating FIFA’s 3-point deduction from South Africa

Former Super Eagles defender, Samuel Sodje, has condemned the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) and sections of the Nigerian football community for celebrating FIFA’s recent decision to deduct three points from South Africa’s Bafana Bafana

The world football governing body announced the sanction on Monday, following violations concerning player eligibility in a World Cup qualifier match.

The controversy surrounds South Africa’s decision to field Teboho Mokoena, an ineligible player, during their clash with Lesotho in March 2025 as part of the qualifying campaign for the 2026 World Cup.

In addition to the points deduction, FIFA has also reduced South Africa’s goal tally by three, significantly impacting their standing in Group C of the qualifiers.

The deduction has ignited a wave of jubilation among Nigerian football fans, who see it as a potential lifeline for their own team, the Super Eagles, who currently sit third in the group with 11 points, trailing South Africa by three points. Such sentiments have particularly resonated in light of Nigeria’s ongoing quest for qualification for the prestigious tournament.

However, Sodje, who earned over 20 caps for the Super Eagles during his career, has labelled the celebrations as “embarrassing.” In an interview with Soccernet, he expressed his disbelief at the reactions from Nigerian fans and the NFF, stating: “For South Africa, they did break the rules, and they’ve taken three points off them. I think that’s normal. What’s surprising now is Nigerians are seeing this as big news. I think it’s embarrassing.”

Sodje’s comments reflect a broader sentiment that celebrating the misfortune of opponents does not bolster the integrity of Nigerian football but rather reduces it. This perspective advocates for a focus on improving the Super Eagles’ own performance on the pitch, rather than relying on the setbacks of rivals to achieve success.

The situation continues to develop as the Super Eagles prepare for their upcoming matches in the qualifiers, where securing victories will determine their fate and potential qualification for the World Cup. The pressure is now on Nigeria to deliver results rather than seeking to benefit from the penalties imposed on their competitors. With the stakes higher than ever, fans and players alike are urged to keep their focus on the game rather than the shortcomings of others.

As the race for World Cup qualification intensifies, the NFF and the Nigerian football community must reflect on their approach, ensuring that the love of the game remains their primary focus and guiding principle.