SAFA Survives FIFA Sanction On Mokoena
FIFA has released a new round of World Cup qualifying sanctions, but there is still no penalty for the Bafana Bafana match against Lesotho, which featured an ineligible Teboho Mokoena.
This silence suggests that SAFA and South Africa may have avoided a serious sanction.
Why Was Teboho Mokoena Ineligible?
In a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Lesotho in March, Mokoena, a key midfielder for Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana, should have been suspended. He had accumulated two yellow cards: one against Benin in November 2023 and another against Zimbabwe. According to FIFA rules, this triggers a one-match suspension.
After learning of the error, the South African Football Association (SAFA) took immediate action. Mokoena was initially set to play in the next qualifier against Benin in the Ivory Coast, but was removed from the starting lineup to prevent further complications. Sources indicate that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) may have failed to notify SAFA of the player’s suspension list, leading to the mix-up.
Lesotho’s Critical Decision
A major factor in South Africa’s favor was the Lesotho Football Association (LeFA). LeFA had a 24-hour window to lodge a formal protest with FIFA after the match, but chose not to. This decision likely spared SAFA from disciplinary action, including a potential forfeiture of points, which would have been a significant setback for South Africa’s World Cup qualifying campaign.
What’s Next for Bafana Bafana?
With the Mokoena issue seemingly in the rearview mirror, Bafana Bafana will now focus on their upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers. They are set to play against Lesotho on 6 September and then against fierce rivals Nigeria four days later. Both matches will be held at Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein.
A win in both of these games would not only solidify Bafana Bafana’s position but could also completely end Nigeria’s World Cup hopes.
Group Standings: A Look at the Table
Bafana Bafana currently leads their group with 13 points from six matches, putting them five points clear of second-placed Rwanda. Nigeria is currently in fourth place, a full six points behind South Africa, making these upcoming matches a must-win for the Super Eagles.
