FIFA disciplinary action SAFA over fielding Teboho Mokoena while suspended in a World Cup qualifier, raising risk of match forfeiture

FIFA disciplinary action SAFA proceedings have been initiated after the South African Football Association allegedly fielded Teboho Mokoena while he was suspended in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

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Mokoena played in South Africa’s 2–0 win over Lesotho on 21 March 2025 in Polokwane.

However, FIFA asserts the midfielder should have served a one-match ban due to accumulated yellow cards — one against Benin in November 2023 and another versus Zimbabwe in June 2024.

In a formal letter dated 15 September 2025, FIFA informed SAFA that both the governing body and the 28-year-old Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder face disciplinary charges for breaching the rules concerning ineligible players.

The matter has now been handed over to FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee. SAFA and Mokoena have been granted six days to respond.

If found guilty, the victory over Lesotho could be overturned, handing the visitors a 3–0 win on paper.

Such a punishment would see Bafana Bafana fall to 14 points, level with Benin, though they would maintain top spot on goal difference.

The potential sanctions could also include fines or suspensions, further complicating South Africa’s path to World Cup qualification.

Lesotho, meanwhile, would move up to nine points but remain in fifth place, still behind Nigeria and Rwanda, who are locked on 11 points each.

South Africa would then be forced to beat both Zimbabwe and Rwanda in October — and hope Benin slip up — to reach the global showpiece.

This FIFA disciplinary action SAFA situation has not yet been publicly addressed by the South African Football Association.

Also read: Didier Drogba joins FIFA anti-racism players’ panel

The case has ignited serious concerns over administrative oversight, as the consequences of fielding an ineligible player in international football can be severe and far-reaching.

Source: Read more at theheute.com.ng