South Africa Face Possible Points Deduction for Fielding Ineligible Player in World Cup Qualifier

South Africa’s qualification hopes for the 2026 FIFA World Cup could be in jeopardy after reports emerged that the team fielded an ineligible player in their recent 2-0 victory over Lesotho. Midfielder Teboho Mokoena, who plays for Mamelodi Sundowns, had accumulated two yellow cards in previous qualifiers and should have been suspended for the match.

Mokoena received his first caution in November 2023 during South Africa’s 2-1 win over Benin and picked up a second yellow card in June 2024 against Zimbabwe. According to FIFA’s Disciplinary Code, a player who receives yellow cards in two different matches within the same competition is automatically suspended for the next game.

Despite this regulation, South Africa fielded Mokoena in the crucial qualifier against Lesotho, which they won to extend their lead in Group C. If found guilty of breaking FIFA’s rules, South Africa could face a points deduction, as outlined in Section 19 of the Disciplinary Code. The sanction would mean forfeiting the match, awarding Lesotho the win, and paying a fine of at least CHF 6,000. Mokoena himself may also face disciplinary action.

The development could significantly impact the standings, especially for Nigeria, who are currently chasing South Africa in the group. Bafana Bafana lead with 10 points, four ahead of the Super Eagles. However, if Lesotho is awarded the victory due to the violation, they would move up to eight points, bringing Nigeria back into contention for a qualification spot.

South Africa may still have a chance to appeal under Section 18:1 of FIFA’s Disciplinary Code, which allows teams to lodge protests within 24 hours of a match’s conclusion. However, the outcome of the disciplinary process could reshape Group C’s qualification race as teams prepare for the next round of matches.