The world of African football has been rocked by news that FIFA, the global governing body, has initiated disciplinary proceedings against the South African Football Association (SAFA) and midfielder Teboho Mokoena. The move comes after Mokoena allegedly played in a 2026 World Cup qualifier while under suspension, a decision that could have a significant impact on Group C standings.
The core of the issue stems from South Africa’s 2-0 victory over Lesotho in Polokwane. According to reports, Teboho Mokoena was ineligible for the match, having accumulated two yellow cards in previous qualifiers—one against Benin in November 2023 and another against Zimbabwe in June 2024. Under FIFA rules, this should have resulted in an automatic one-match ban.
In a letter dated September 15, 2025, FIFA formally notified both SAFA and the 28-year-old midfielder that they face charges for violating disciplinary regulations concerning the use of an ineligible player. The case has now been referred to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, with a six-day deadline for SAFA and Mokoena to submit their response.
If the committee finds SAFA and Mokoena guilty, the consequences could be severe. The most immediate penalty would be the forfeiture of the match, turning South Africa’s 2–0 win into a 3–0 defeat on paper for Lesotho. This would not only award Lesotho three points but also dramatically reshape the Group C table.
A forfeiture would see Bafana Bafana’s point total drop, leaving them level with Benin. While they would still hold a slight advantage on goal difference, the qualification race would intensify. Lesotho would gain a crucial three points, narrowing their gap with Nigeria and Rwanda, who are currently tied on 11 points. With only the group winners securing an automatic spot, this development leaves South Africa needing to win their final two games in October and hope other results go their way to secure a ticket to the World Cup.
