JUST IN: FIFA Sanctions SAFA for Fielding Ineligible Player

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee has imposed sanctions on the South African Football Association (SAFA) after finding the team guilty of fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, during their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho on 21 March 2025.

According to FIFA’s ruling, Mokoena was under suspension at the time of the match, rendering him ineligible to play.

FIFA’s Ruling:

The match between South Africa and Lesotho has been forfeited 0–3 in favour of Lesotho.

SAFA were fined CHF 10,000.

Teboho Mokoena has received a formal warning.

Impact on Group C Standings:

Following the ruling, South Africa lose three points from the forfeited fixture. This significantly alters the Group C table, with Benin moving to the top of the group on goal difference, while South Africa drop to second place.

The updated standings show:

1. Benin – 14 points

2. South Africa – 14 points

3. Nigeria – 11 points

4. Rwanda – 11 points

5. Lesotho – 9 points

6. Zimbabwe – 4 points

With just two matches remaining, the race for the group’s automatic qualification spot is set to go down to the wire.

Remaining Fixtures in Group C:

South Africa vs Zimbabwe, Rwanda

Benin vs Rwanda, Nigeria

The sanction is a major blow to Bafana Bafana’s qualification hopes, as they now face increased pressure to win their remaining fixtures to secure a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.