Media Team
FIFA has initiated disciplinary proceedings against the South African Football Association (SAFA) following accusations of using an ineligible player in their recent 2026 World Cup qualifier against Lesotho.
The match, held on March 21, 2025, in Polokwane, saw Bafana Bafana secure a 2-0 victory. However, controversy arose when Teboho Mokoena, who had already collected two yellow cards in prior qualifiers, was fielded despite being suspended for the game.
Mokoena, a key Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder, received the bookings in matches against Benin and Zimbabwe, which automatically disqualified him from the clash with Lesotho. FIFA has formally charged SAFA and the player for violating multiple disciplinary codes.
The matter has now been escalated to FIFA’s disciplinary committee, with potential repercussions including a forfeiture of South Africa’s win. If found guilty, Lesotho could be awarded a default 3-0 victory, altering the Group C standings.
