South Africa Football Association (SAFA) chief executive Lydia Monyepao says Bafana Bafana remain focused on qualifying for the 2026 World Cup despite confirmation that Fifa has launched an investigation into the fielding of ineligible midfielder Teboho Mokoena.
FIFA notified Safa this week that it is examining South Africa’s 2-0 win over Lesotho in March, after it emerged that Mokoena should have been suspended, having accumulated two yellow cards in previous qualifiers.
Speaking at a sponsorship event in Soweto, Monyepao confirmed the investigation but insisted the association was “not really concerned” about the possible docking of points.
“We’ve received communication from FIFA about the investigation. we’re preparing our response to the disciplinary committee. We are not really worried about that. Our focus right now is to ensure that Bafana get maximum points come October,” she said.
Teboho Mokoena of South Africa is challenged by Lehlohonolo Matsau of Lesotho during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier – Photo by Icon Sport
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South Africa face Zimbabwe on 6 October and Rwanda on 13 October in their final Group C fixtures. Victory in both would seal their place at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Lesotho’s tally would rise to nine points, though they would stay in fifth place.
The Super Eagles will remain third on 11 points with matches against Lesotho a d Benin Republic to come.
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Under FIFA’s Disciplinary Code, fielding an ineligible player usually results in the forfeiture of the match, with the score overturned to 3–0 regardless of the actual result. Additional sanctions, such as fines or suspensions, may also be imposed.
Should Fifa order a forfeit, South Africa would be level on 14 points with Benin but remain top of the group due to a superior goal difference.
