2026 World Cup Qualifier: South Africa Slapped With Points Deduction

South Africa’s hope of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup have suffered a huge setback after they were docked three points for fielding an ineligible player in a qualifying match.

Teboho Mokoena appeared for Bafana Bafana in a 2-0 win over Lesotho in March despite being suspended for accumulating too many yellow cards in previous matches.

The star midfielder, who plies his trade at club level for Mamelodi Sundowns, completed 82 minutes of the match. After being pressured to open an investigation, FIFA have annulled South Africa’s win in the match.

FIFA’s latest decision on this matter leaves South Africa leaves the group wide open with Benin, Nigeria and Rwanda giving the opportunity to stage a fight.

The South African Football Association has been ordered to pay a CHF 10,000 (£9,334.95) fine on top of the sporting penalty. They have the option to appeal the decision, and must do so within ten days.

In accordance with the relevant provisions of the FDC, South Africa have ten days in which to request a motivated decision, which, if requested, would subsequently be published on legal.fifa.com . The forfeiture decision remains subject to a potential appeal before the FIFA Appeal Committee.