South Africa’s bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been dealt a major setback after FIFA sanctioned the team for fielding an ineligible player
Midfielder Teboho Mokoena featured in South Africa’s 2-0 victory over Lesotho in March, despite being suspended after accumulating two yellow cards in previous matches.
FIFA’s disciplinary committee ruled that the appearance breached competition regulations, awarding Lesotho a 3-0 victory by forfeit.
In addition, the South African Football Association (SAFA) has been fined 10,000 Swiss Francs ($12,500/£9,340), while Mokoena received an official warning.
The ruling has dramatically changed the standings in Group C of the African qualifiers, with South Africa dropping from first place to second on goal difference, putting Benin at the top.
The decision reignites Nigeria and Rwanda’s chances of qualifying, as both teams now sit just three points behind the leaders. Benin will face Rwanda and Nigeria in October’s decisive final qualifying rounds, while South Africa take on Zimbabwe away before hosting Rwanda.
SAFA has 10 days to file an appeal against FIFA’s decision.
