Benin Coach Gernot Rohr Demands FIFA, CAF Action Over South Africa’s Eligibility Case

Benin Republic head coach Gernot Rohr has voiced his frustration over the delay by FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in addressing South Africa’s alleged violation during a World Cup qualifier.

The controversy centers around South Africa’s 2-0 win over Lesotho in March, where midfielder Teboho Mokoena was reportedly fielded despite being ineligible to play. If confirmed, this could lead to a three-point deduction, which would significantly reshape Group C standings.

Rohr, who previously managed Nigeria’s Super Eagles, insists that the matter should have been resolved by now. Speaking after Benin’s 1-0 victory over Zimbabwe, the German tactician expressed concern about the lack of clarity from football’s governing bodies.

“South Africa won against Lesotho? Okay, but the match that matters is the first leg, where they have to lose the three points. The rules are very clear. We don’t know why FIFA and CAF haven’t yet decided to take the points away from them,” Rohr said in frustration.

The Benin coach highlighted that the delay leaves Nigeria, Rwanda, and Benin Republic in a state of uncertainty as the World Cup qualification race heats up.

He further stressed:

“We don’t know where we stand. We now have 11 points after today’s win. If South Africa loses three points, we will only be two points behind them. What are they waiting for? It is incomprehensible.”

With the group still wide open, Rohr’s call for fairness puts more pressure on FIFA and CAF to make a decisive ruling that could determine the future of several African teams in the qualifiers.