Benin coach Gernot Rohr has welcomed the FIFA’s decision to open disciplinary proceedings against South Africa FIFA but expressed frustration at the delay.

Bafana Bafana are under scrutiny to field an ineligible player Teboho Mokoena in a 2026 World Cup qualifier.

He said: “This has been dragging on since March. This matter should have been resolved earlier,” Rohr told YOP L-FRII.

“If the rules are strictly applied, with the goal average rule, we would be top of the group, level on points with South Africa but with one more goal.”

Despite the potential boost, Rohr acknowledged that the Cheetahs still have a mountain to climb in their bid to qualify for the World Cup, including an away trip to Nigeria next month.

“The schedule doesn’t favour us. We still have two difficult away games, including Rwanda, who still have a chance of qualifying.

“Meanwhile, South Africa will play its last two matches at home, with less fatigue and the support of its home crowd. We remain outsiders, but this decision gives us some hope.”

Lesotho did not lodge an appeal within the required timeframe, but FIFA retain the power to act unilaterally.

The 28-year-old should have been serving a one-match suspension after picking up yellow cards against Benin in November 2023 and Zimbabwe in June 2024. (THE NATION)