'Up to the authorities' - Lesotho coach weighs in on Mokoena controversy rocking Nigeria's WCQ group

The debate surrounding Teboho Mokoena's yellow card situation after South Africa's 2-0 victory over Lesotho last Friday has prompted a response from Lesotho head coach Leslie Notsi.

The controversy centers around claims that Mokoena should have been suspended for the match due to accumulated yellow cards, sparking debate and potential appeals from affected teams, including Lesotho and their group rivals, including Nigeria.

Having picked up two yellow cards, 2023 Africa Cup of Nations star Teboho Mokoena was supposed to serve a one-match ban and should not have played against Lesotho.

Mokhosi Mohapi, secretary-general of the Lesotho Football Association, confirmed that a formal inquiry regarding Mokoena has been sent to both Fifa and Caf.

When asked to comment on Mokoena's ineligibility against Lesotho, Notsi maintained a diplomatic stance.

"On this matter I can't say much, my focus was on today's match (against Rwanda)," he was quoted as saying by Soccer Laduma.

The Crocodiles coach was clear that the issue should be left to the proper channels.

"I think that one is up to the authorities and those in charge, and I heard they will file complaints, but I don't know anything, I do not know if they have done it yet," he added.

A successful appeal by Lesotho regarding Mokoena would lift them to nine points and potentially cut South Africa’s lead to 10, leaving them only three points clear of Nigeria with four fixtures to go.

The Super Eagles will resume the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in September with a home game against Rwanda, followed by a trip to South Africa.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

Photo Credit: safa.net

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