Eric Chelle calls on FIFA to reconsider Teboho Mokoena case | OneFootball

Eric Chelle calls on FIFA to reconsider Teboho Mokoena case

Ahead of a decisive 2026 World Cup qualifier against South Africa, Nigeria’s head coach Eric Chelle has intensified pressure on FIFA to resolve an ongoing disciplinary controversy involving South African midfielder Teboho Mokoena.

Mokoena, who plays for Mamelodi Sundowns, was widely believed to be suspended for South Africa’s match against Lesotho in March due to an accumulation of yellow cards. Despite this, he participated in the game. Nigeria and Lesotho have since formally protested, urging FIFA to deduct three points from South Africa’s total—a case that has remained unresolved for six months.

South Africa currently leads their qualifying group with 16 points, holding a five-point advantage over Benin. Nigeria trails by six points, making their upcoming match critical for their qualification hopes.

What did Chelle say about Mokoena?

Addressing the media on Monday, Eric Chelle deflected the ongoing disciplinary controversy, stating his sole focus is on his team's performance. "I’m just a coach; I lead my team," he told reporters, before directly addressing the governing body. "What happened around my team and around this game… talk about the yellow card. There is an organisation called FIFA. FIFA need to manage it."

The former Mali national team coach emphasized that his primary responsibility is to shield his players from external distractions and ensure their concentration is solely on the match. He clarified that the administrative matter is not within his purview, adding, "They want you to make it a great game once again."

While reiterating that his squad's priority is the game itself, he did concede in a more personal remark, "if I can tell you in one-on-one, something I think FIFA need to manage it quickly."