Minister of Sports Gayton McKenzie Criticizes FIFA's Decision
Minister of Sports Gayton McKenzie has deemed the recent FIFA ruling, which resulted in Bafana Bafana losing three points in their World Cup campaign, an 'embarrassment.' He announced that the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) will conduct a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances leading to this sanction.
FIFA's Sanction on SAFA Due to Ineligible Player
FIFA imposed sanctions on the South African Football Association (SAFA) for fielding ineligible player Teboho Mokoena during a qualifier match against Lesotho. This oversight led to the forfeiture of three points for Bafana Bafana, in addition to awarding a 3-0 victory to Lesotho.
Mokoena, who plays for Mamelodi Sundowns, had previously received two yellow cards—one against Benin in November 2023 and another against Zimbabwe in March 2024—which automatically mandated a suspension for the subsequent game. However, he participated in the match against Lesotho.
Though SAFA was reported to be contemplating an appeal to FIFA, arguing that they lost track of the yellow cards due to an overload of fixtures, FIFA dismissed this rationale.
Full Statement from Minister McKenzie
The Minister's department issued a statement addressing the serious implications of the ruling:
“As the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, I have noted FIFA’s decision to deduct three points from Bafana Bafana and fine SAFA 10,000 Swiss Francs (approximately R215,000). This situation is deeply regrettable and has caused embarrassment for our nation and the sport of football.”
McKenzie continued, “This incident has tarnished South Africa's reputation, and we must take full accountability to rectify it. We appreciate FIFA’s prompt actions that spared us from uncertainty regarding our situation.”
Focus on Future Actions
The Minister highlighted the dual focus for moving forward:
- Team Support: “We must rally behind our national team as they gear up for their essential concluding matches in Durban and Mbombela... This point deduction is merely a setback, and we firmly believe in our team’s potential for qualification.”
- Accountability Measures: “The DSAC will spearhead a thorough investigation to uncover the incompetence that resulted in this sanction. We are dedicated to identifying the underlying issues and ensuring those responsible are held accountable. A comprehensive report will be made public to clarify the situation and avert similar issues in the future.”
McKenzie concluded with an appeal for national unity: “We encourage all South Africans to come together and support Bafana Bafana… Together, we can propel them to the USA, Canada, and Mexico in 2026, showcasing our solidarity in challenging times.”
Current Standings and Appeal Process
Beyond the points penalty, SAFA is also required to pay a fine of CHF 10,000 to FIFA, while Mokoena has received a warning.
SAFA has a window of 10 days to contest the forfeiture ruling with the FIFA Appeal Committee.
Bafana Bafana currently holds 14 points after eight matches, positioning them in second place in Group C, trailing only Benin, due to goal difference.
In the African qualifiers, only the top group team qualifies automatically for the FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the USA, while the four best runners-up will enter a play-off for a second chance.
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