The South African Football Association (SAFA) has expressed disappointment at FIFA’s decision to deduct three points from Bafana Bafana for fielding an ineligible player, midfielder Teboho Mokoena, in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho.
FIFA Deducts Points From Bafana Bafana
On Monday, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee ruled that South Africa had breached competition regulations when Mokoena featured in the 21 March clash. The ruling awarded Lesotho a 3-0 victory, overturning the on-field result.
The sanction has dropped Bafana Bafana from first place in Group C of the African World Cup qualifiers, with Benin moving top on goal difference. Both teams are now level on 14 points heading into the final two fixtures.
SAFA Questions Process, Plans Appeal
In a strongly worded statement, SAFA said it was “deeply disappointed” that the decision was issued by a single-member panel without giving the Association an opportunity to present arguments.
“We have requested written reasons for the judgment and intend to lodge a formal appeal with the FIFA Appeals Committee within the prescribed 10-day period,” SAFA confirmed.
Along with the points deduction, SAFA was fined CHF 10,000, while Mokoena received a formal warning.
Bafana Bafana’s Remaining Fixtures
Despite the setback, Bafana Bafana remain in contention for World Cup qualification. Their final group-stage matches are:
- South Africa vs Zimbabwe – 10 October 2025, Moses Mabhida Stadium (Durban), 18:00
- South Africa vs Rwanda – 14 October 2025, Mbombela Stadium (Mbombela), 18:00
Only the group winners secure automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the USA, while the four best runners-up will advance to a play-off round.
Sports Minister Slams ‘Embarrassment’
South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Gayton McKenzie, has condemned the administrative error, confirming that a government investigation will be launched.
“This has brought shame and embarrassment into South African football,” McKenzie said, adding that accountability will be sought.
SAFA Calls for Unity
Despite the controversy, SAFA urged South Africans to continue backing the national team in their quest for World Cup qualification:
“The players and the technical team have worked extremely hard to reach this stage, and we remain focused on securing maximum points in the matches ahead.”
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