You probably didn't have to go and buy the whole game again, but yes, you'll be able to play just fine. You technically have two playable accounts now, so maybe you can give it to a friend who successfully gets the game going without a CD (so far, I don't so, as I haven't seen any working mini-images).
On that subject: You can probably get a replacement CD by proving you own it. I've seen it done, but how varies between publishers. Most of the time it involves mailing your play CD and manual in, and they send you a replacement for free (not counting shipping/postage costs). Some other places do things a little more easily and may just need an unedited image/photo. This same process goes with some CD key related problems.
And I know, Starforce is the work of the devil and completely unrelated to BF2142, but with them, you can even request an unprotected executable that works with only your disc key / installation, if your game cannot start with your legitimate game media. Kinda cool of them, if you ask me.
Still, I hate that intrusive protection and don't want to see it ever again.