FIFA has officially opened disciplinary proceedings against the South African Football Association (SAFA) and midfielder Teboho Mokoena after he was fielded while suspended in a 2026 World Cup qualifier. The decision could cost South Africa three points and impact the standings in Group C.
How the Issue Surfaced
- On March 21, 2025, South Africa defeated Lesotho 2-0 in Polokwane in a World Cup qualifier.
- Midfielder Teboho Mokoena played in that match despite having picked up two yellow cards earlier in the qualifiers; one in November 2023 vs Benin, another in June 2024 vs Zimbabwe. Under the rules, that should have triggered a one-match suspension.
What FIFA Has Done
- SAFA has received a letter dated 15 September 2025 from FIFA, officially informing them that proceedings have been opened over the Mokoena eligibility issue.
- SAFA and Mokoena have been given six days to respond to the allegations.
What’s at Stake
- If found guilty, FIFA’s rules could force South Africa to forfeit the match, changing the result in favour of Lesotho with a 3-0 scoreline. South Africa would also lose the three points they gained.
- This could drastically shake up Group C standings in the 2026 World Cup qualification campaign. South Africa’s point tally, Lesotho’s ranking, and the race for the automatic qualification spot could all be affected.
Reactions
- Lesotho had lodged a formal complaint with FIFA after the match over Mokoena’s eligibility.
- South Africa admitted the error but cited communication mishaps in handling player status. Coach Hugo Broos and SAFA are now under pressure.
Why It Matters for Nigeria and Others
- Nigeria is directly impacted in terms of competing standings. A shift in Group C points can open or close qualification possibilities.
- It’s also a reminder that disciplinary rules for eligibility are strict and that even one error can have serious consequences for national teams.
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