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FIFA have taken a huge decision regarding complaints received about South Africa fielding an ineligible player in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The South African Football Association (SAFA) is facing disciplinary action after the FIFA Disciplinary Committee confirmed it has opened proceedings regarding the fielding of Teboho Mokoena in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho.
Bafana Bafana defeated the Crocodiles 2-0 on 21 March 2025 in Polokwane, but controversy erupted soon after the match when it was revealed that Mokoena, a Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder, should have been suspended. He had collected two yellow cards in earlier Group C fixtures against Benin Republic and Zimbabwe, which automatically triggered a one-match ban.
Despite this, South Africa fielded him, prompting Lesotho and several other nations to file formal complaints with FIFA.
Disciplinary Proceedings
According to SABC Sport, FIFA has now charged both SAFA and Mokoena with breaching multiple disciplinary regulations. The case has been referred to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, which has given SAFA six days to provide an official explanation.
Potential Consequences
If found guilty, South Africa could face significant sanctions, including:
- Forfeiture of the result against Lesotho, with the outcome changed to a 3-0 victory for Lesotho – widely considered the most likely ruling, given FIFA’s precedents.
- Deduction of points in the Group C standings.
- Financial penalties or further disciplinary measures against both SAFA and the player.
A ruling is expected once SAFA submits its response. If the result is overturned, it could have major implications for the Group C qualification race heading into the final rounds.
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