The South African Football Association (SAFA) has been hit with sanctions by FIFA for fielding an ineligible player in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier.
Teboho Mokoena, who should have been suspended after two yellow cards, played in South Africa’s 2-0 win over Lesotho in March. FIFA has now overturned that result, awarding Lesotho a 3-0 victory.
The ruling docked Bafana Bafana three points and fined SAFA CHF 10,000. Mokoena also received a formal warning.
The decision drops South Africa from the top of Group C to second place, now tied on 14 points with Benin Republic but behind on goal difference.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles remain third with 11 points, and suddenly have a lifeline in their push for qualification.
Nigeria’s Renewed Chance
The ruling means Nigeria must now seize the opportunity when they face Lesotho and Benin Republic in their final fixtures.
Victory in both matches could swing the table in their favour and restore belief in a campaign that has frustrated fans so far.
SAFA has vowed to fight back. The body described the punishment as “unprecedented” and claimed it was delivered “without reasons, and without affording the Association an opportunity to present legal arguments.”
President Dr. Danny Jordaan apologised to fans, calling it an “administrative oversight” but insisted the team remains focused.
He confirmed that SAFA has requested written reasons and will appeal within FIFA’s 10-day window.
South Africa now face an uphill task. Their final two qualifiers — against Zimbabwe on October 10 in Durban and Rwanda on October 14 in Mbombela — will be decisive.
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