AFCON 2025
The South African Football Association (SAFA) is facing disciplinary proceedings from FIFA over allegations of fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in their 2026 World Cup qualifier against Lesotho.
The development could have significant ramifications for Bafana Bafana’s campaign, which is already under intense scrutiny.
South Africa secured a 2-0 victory over the Crocodiles on March 21, 2025, a result that now hangs in the balance.
Mokoena, the Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder, had accumulated two yellow cards in previous qualifiers against Benin in November 2023 and Zimbabwe in June 2024, which automatically triggered a one-match ban under FIFA rules. Despite this, he featured in the match against Lesotho.
FIFA have now officially queried the South African federation for fielding an ineligible player Teboho Mokoena in a #WCQ game against Lesotho, per SABC Sport.
Bafana Bafana risk match forfeiture if found guilty. pic.twitter.com/eklv7PkgXx
— Soar Super Eagles (@SSE_NGA) September 18, 2025
Potential Consequences and Group Standings
According to a letter sent to SAFA from FIFA, both the association and the player are facing charges. The case has been referred to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, which has given SAFA six days to submit a response.
If found guilty, the most likely outcome is that South Africa will be forced to forfeit the match, with Lesotho being awarded a 3-0 victory.
This ruling would be a devastating blow, as it would see Bafana Bafana’s point total drop from 17 to 14, putting them level with Benin at the top of Group C on points, but still ahead on goal difference. It would also give a lifeline to Nigeria and Rwanda, who are both tied on 11 points.
The development now puts immense pressure on coach Hugo Broos and his men, who must secure victories in their final two qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda in October to guarantee their place at the 2026 World Cup.
SAFA has yet to issue a public statement on the matter.
