FIFA Opens Disciplinary Case Against South Africa And Teboho Mokoena Over World Cup Qualifier

The Federation Of International Football Association (FIFA) Has Officially Opened Disciplinary Proceedings Against The South African Football Association (SAFA) And Midfielder Teboho Mokoena.

Why FIFA Took Action

According To Reports, Mokoena, Who Plays For Mamelodi Sundowns, Was Fielded By Bafana Bafana Despite Being Under Suspension In Their 2-0 Victory Against Lesotho On March 21, 2025, During A 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier In Polokwane City.

The Midfielder Had Already Accumulated Two Yellow Cards In Previous Games Against Benin Republic And Zimbabwe, Which Under FIFA Regulations, Automatically Triggered A One-Match Suspension.

Possible Consequences For Bafana Bafana

FIFA Has Confirmed That Both SAFA And Mokoena Face Charges For Breaching Disciplinary Rules By Fielding An Ineligible Player. The Case Has Been Referred To The FIFA Disciplinary Committee, With SAFA And Mokoena Given Six Days To Submit Their Response.

If Found Guilty, South Africa Could Be Forced To Forfeit Their Victory, Meaning Lesotho Would Be Awarded A 3-0 Win.

Legal Defense

Despite The Potential Sanction, South African Legal Experts Believe There May Be Grounds For SAFA To Escape Punishment, Arguing That FIFA’s Rule Interpretation Could Allow For A Technical Loophole.

What This Means For World Cup Qualification

The Outcome Of This Case Could Have A Huge Impact On Group C Of The 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. South Africa Currently Lead The Group, But A Forfeited Result Could Shake Up The Standings And Hand Lesotho A Major Boost.

Conclusion

The Next Few Days Will Be Crucial As FIFA Reviews SAFA’s Response. For Now, The Spotlight Remains On Whether Administrative Oversight Could Cost Bafana Bafana Their World Cup Dream.

Do You Think FIFA Will Punish South Africa Or Let Them Off With A Warning? Drop Your Opinions Below!

Written By Abdul Noah Ocholi | Sports Market International