FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against the South African Football Association (SAFA) for fielding ineligible midfielder Teboho Mokoena during a 2026 World Cup qualifier against Lesotho in March.
According to South African outlet SABC Sport, FIFA, in a letter dated September 15, 2025, confirmed that both Mokoena and SAFA face charges for breaching disciplinary rules. The case has been referred to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, with six days given for a formal response.
Mokoena, 28, was ineligible for the match after accumulating yellow cards against Benin in November 2023 and Zimbabwe in June 2024, which should have triggered a one-game suspension.
If found guilty, South Africa risk forfeiting the result to Lesotho, who would be awarded a 3–0 victory, alongside possible fines or suspensions.
Currently topping Group C with 17 points, Bafana Bafana could see their lead cut to just three points above Nigeria and level with Benin Republic on 14 points if the sanction is enforced. Lesotho would rise to nine points but remain fifth, behind Nigeria and Rwanda on 11 points each.
South Africa still have matches against Zimbabwe and Rwanda in October, while Nigeria will face Lesotho away and Benin Republic at home, leaving the group wide open.
The case follows a recent FIFA ruling against Equatorial Guinea, who were penalised for fielding ineligible striker Emilio Nsue — a decision later upheld by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Source: NewsDigest
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