Former Super Eagles defender, Samuel Sodje, has described as “embarrassing” the excitement in Nigeria following FIFA’s decision to dock South Africa three points.

The football body announced on Monday that Bafana Bafana were punished for fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in their March 2025 World Cup qualifying match against Lesotho.

In addition to the points deduction, FIFA also docked three goals from South Africa’s record.

The development sparked celebrations among some Nigerian fans, who saw it as a lifeline for the Super Eagles, currently third in the group with 11 points—just three behind South Africa.

Reacting to the news, Sodje said:
“For South Africa, they broke the rules, and the three points have been taken off them. That’s normal. What’s surprising is Nigerians seeing this as big news. I think it’s embarrassing.”