2026 World Cup Qualifiers: South Africa Faces Possible Sanction for Fielding Ineligible Player

South Africa's World Cup Qualification at Risk Over Eligibility Controversy

South Africa could face FIFA sanctions after fielding midfielder Teboho Mokoena in their 2-0 victory over Lesotho during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Mokoena, who should have served a one-match suspension due to accumulated yellow cards, played a key role in the match held in Polokwane.

The Controversy Explained

• Regulation Breach: FIFA rules mandate suspensions for players with two yellow cards in qualifiers. Mokoena received bookings against Benin and Zimbabwe earlier in the campaign.
• Lesotho's Protest: The Lesotho Football Association formally questioned Mokoena’s eligibility, demanding FIFA enforce its regulations.
  "We expect fairness. If South Africa violated rules, consequences must follow," said Mokhosi Mohapi, Lesotho FA secretary general.

Potential Consequences

• Points Deduction: If penalized, South Africa’s win could be overturned, with Lesotho awarded a 3-0 technical victory.
• Group C Implications:
  • South Africa’s five-point lead would shrink to one point.
  • Nigeria’s qualification hopes would revive, trailing by six points with four matches remaining.

FIFA’s Timeline and South Africa’s Response

• Protests must be filed within 24 hours post-match (FIFA Art. 14).
• Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos stated the issue is "being resolved this week," but the South African FA declined further comment.

Key Stats: Group C Standings (If Sanction Applied)

Upcoming Fixtures:

• South Africa vs. Rwanda (June 2025)
• Nigeria vs. Zimbabwe (June 2025)

The decision could redefine Africa’s road to the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada.