South Africa risks losing its World Cup advantage as FIFA sanctions Bafana Bafana over an ineligible player, leaving Group C wide open.
The South African Football Association (SAFA) says it will challenge FIFA’s decision to dock Bafana Bafana three points and fine the team for fielding an ineligible player during their 2026 World Cup qualifier against Lesotho.
On Monday, FIFA awarded Lesotho a 3–0 victory in the March match, which South Africa had originally won 2–0. Midfielder Teboho Mokoena should have been suspended after receiving two yellow cards earlier in the qualifiers.
The ruling significantly alters the Group C standings. South Africa’s six–point cushion over Nigeria has been cut to three, while Benin Republic climb to the top on goal difference.
In a statement, SAFA described the sanction as “unprecedented,” criticising it for being delivered by a single–member panel without reasons or the opportunity to present legal arguments. The association confirmed it has requested written explanations and will file an appeal with FIFA’s Appeals Committee within the 10-day window.
The development raises the stakes ahead of October’s fixtures. South Africa must now secure victories against Lesotho and Zimbabwe to revive their qualification hopes, while Nigeria and Benin remain in a tight battle for the group’s top spot.
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