The South African national football team has been hit with a points deduction after fielding an ineligible player in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
The FIFA Disciplinary Committee confirmed on Monday that South Africa breached regulations by playing midfielder Teboho Mokoena in the match against Lesotho on 21 March 2025.
The decision cites violations of Article 19 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code and Article 14 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Preliminary Competition Regulations.
As a result, the March 21 fixture has been forfeited by South Africa, with the official scoreline recorded as 3-0 in favour of Lesotho.
The South African Football Association (SAFA) has also been ordered to pay a fine of CHF 10,000. Teboho Mokoena, who featured in the match, has been issued a formal warning by FIFA.
Teboho Mokoena of South Africa is challenged by Lehlohonolo Matsau of Lesotho during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier – Photo by Icon Sport
Both SAFA and Mokoena were notified of the decision on Monday. The parties have ten days to request a motivated decision from FIFA, which, if submitted, would be published on FIFA’s legal portal.
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The ruling may also be subject to appeal before the FIFA Appeal Committee.
Impact on Group C Standings
Following the ruling, South Africa are now level on 14 points with Benin and drop to second position, Lesotho moving to nine points but remain in fifth place.
The Current Group C table. Photo Credit: Transfermaket
South Africa face Zimbabwe on 6 October and Rwanda on 13 October in their final Group C fixtures. Victory in both matches would secure their place at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
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Meanwhile, the Super Eagles of Nigeria stay third on 11 points, with matches against Lesotho and Benin Republic remaining in their group campaign.
