SAFA to Challenge FIFA’s Decision
The South African Football Association (SAFA) has expressed its disappointment over FIFA’s recent ruling to impose a three-point deduction on Bafana Bafana for fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, during a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho.
FIFA’s Penalty for Bafana Bafana
On Monday, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee ruled that South Africa breached competition regulations when Mokoena participated in the match on March 21. As a result, Lesotho has been declared the winner with a score of 3-0, overturning the initial outcome of the match.
This sanction has caused Bafana Bafana to slip from the top of Group C in the African World Cup qualifiers, with Benin now in the lead on goal difference. Both teams are currently even at 14 points as they head towards the final two matches.
SAFA Questions the Decision and Plans to Appeal
In a strongly worded statement, SAFA conveyed its “deep disappointment” that the decision stemmed from a single-member panel, denying the Association an opportunity to state its case.
“We have formally requested the detailed reasoning behind the ruling and aim to file an appeal with the FIFA Appeals Committee within the allowed 10-day period,” SAFA confirmed.
Along with the deduction of points, SAFA has been fined CHF 10,000, while Mokoena has received an official warning.
Upcoming Matches for Bafana Bafana
Despite this setback, Bafana Bafana are still in contention for World Cup qualification. Their remaining group-stage fixtures are:
- South Africa vs Zimbabwe – 10 October 2025, Moses Mabhida Stadium (Durban), 18:00
- South Africa vs Rwanda – 14 October 2025, Mbombela Stadium (Mbombela), 18:00
Only the group winners will qualify automatically for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to take place in Canada, Mexico, and the USA, while the four best runners-up will progress to the playoff round.
Minister of Sport Criticizes the Incident
South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Gayton McKenzie, has condemned the administrative oversight and announced plans for a governmental investigation.
“This situation has brought shame and embarrassment to South African football,” McKenzie stated, calling for accountability.
SAFA Calls for National Unity
Amid the controversy, SAFA has urged South Africans to continue backing the national team in their quest for World Cup qualification:
“The players and coaching staff have exerted significant effort to reach this stage, and we remain dedicated to achieving maximum points in the upcoming matches.”
