By: Kwame Bediako
FIFA has officially opened disciplinary proceedings against the South African Football Association (SAFA) and midfielder Teboho Mokoena following his participation while under suspension. Mokoena played in South Africa’s 2–0 victory against Lesotho in the 2026 World Cup qualifying match held on March 21.
The case centers on Mokoena’s eligibility, as fielding a suspended player is a violation of FIFA rules. If South Africa is found guilty, the match result could be overturned, resulting in a 3–0 forfeit loss awarded to Lesotho. This would significantly impact South Africa’s standing in the qualifying group.
Teboho Mokoena
In addition to a potential forfeit, SAFA and Mokoena could face other sanctions, including fines or suspensions imposed by FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee. The investigation is ongoing, and no final decision has yet been announced.
A forfeit loss would cause South Africa to drop in the group rankings, tying them on points with Benin at 14 points after eight matches. However, South Africa would fall to second place due to an inferior goal difference of +3 compared to Benin’s +4.
The outcome of this case will have crucial implications for South Africa’s campaign to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with coach Hugo Broos and his squad awaiting FIFA’s final ruling.
