Johannesburg, South Africa – South Africa’s 2-0 victory over Lesotho in last Friday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier could be overturned after Bafana Bafana allegedly fielded an ineligible player, potentially shaking up Group C standings.
Midfielder Teboho Mokoena, who plays for Mamelodi Sundowns, was not eligible to feature in the match after receiving two yellow cards earlier in the qualification campaign. According to FIFA regulations, players who accumulate two cautions in the qualifying series must serve a one-match suspension.
Mokoena was first booked in South Africa’s 2-1 win over Benin in November 2023 and received another yellow card in their victory against Zimbabwe in June 2024. Despite this, he started in last week’s fixture against Lesotho, raising concerns over potential sanctions.
If FIFA rules are enforced, South Africa could forfeit the three points earned from the match, significantly impacting the group standings. The development may also benefit Nigeria, who remain in contention for World Cup qualification.
Football authorities are expected to review the matter, with a formal decision likely in the coming days.
