The world governing body of football, FIFA, has officially initiated disciplinary proceedings against the South African Football Association (SAFA) and midfielder Teboho Mokoena for fielding the player during a 2026 World Cup qualifier while he was under suspension. The investigation stems from South Africa’s 2-0 victory over Lesotho on March 21, 2025, in Polokwane.
According to a letter sent to SAFA on September 15, FIFA confirmed that both the player and the national association face charges of breaching several disciplinary regulations. The core issue is that Mokoena had accumulated two yellow cards in previous qualifying matches—one against Benin in November 2023 and another against Zimbabwe in June 2024—which, under FIFA rules, should have triggered an automatic one-match ban. Despite this, the Mamelodi Sundowns star featured in the match against Lesotho.
Potential Consequences
The case has been referred to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, which has given SAFA and Mokoena six days to submit their official response. If found guilty, South Africa could be forced to forfeit the result of the match, which would see Lesotho awarded a 3-0 victory. This would have significant implications for the qualification race in Group C.
A three-point deduction would bring South Africa’s total to 14 points, placing them level with Benin, although they would remain at the top of the group on goal difference. It would also narrow the gap between them and other competitors, including Nigeria and Rwanda. Other sanctions, such as fines or further suspensions, could also be imposed.
SAFA has not yet issued a public statement on the matter. The outcome of this case is now a critical factor in South Africa’s campaign to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with only two matches remaining.
Sources: ladunliadinews
