FIFA Opens Case Against SAFA: What It Means for Bafana Bafana’s World Cup Hopes
FIFA has officially opened a disciplinary case against the South African Football Association (SAFA) and Bafana Bafana midfielder Teboho Mokoena. This follows the player’s participation in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier while under suspension.
Mokoena Fielded Despite Suspension
The controversy stems from South Africa’s 2–0 victory over Lesotho in Polokwane on 21 March, where Mokoena featured despite being ineligible. The 28-year-old had received two yellow cards earlier in the qualifiers against Benin in November 2023 and Zimbabwe in June 2024, triggering a mandatory one-match ban under FIFA rules.
In a letter sent to SAFA on 15 September 2025, FIFA confirmed that both the association and Mokoena face charges for breaching several disciplinary regulations, including fielding an ineligible player.
Disciplinary Process Underway
The case has now been referred to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, with SAFA and Mokoena given six days to respond. If found guilty, South Africa could be forced to forfeit the 2–0 win over Lesotho, awarding their opponents a 3–0 victory on paper. Additional sanctions, such as fines or player suspensions, could also be applied.
Also read: How Teboho Mokoena’s Ineligibility Threatens Bafana Bafana’s World Cup Campaign
Implications for World Cup Qualification
A potential forfeit would shake up Group D of CAF’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Bafana Bafana, currently top of the group with 17 points, would drop to 14 points, level with Benin after eight matches. However, South Africa would retain a superior goal difference of +6, compared to Benin’s +4.
Lesotho, meanwhile, would see their points rise from six to nine, but remain in fifth place, two points behind third-placed Nigeria and fourth-placed Rwanda, who both have 11 points.
Coach Hugo Broos’ team now faces increased pressure to secure victories over Zimbabwe and Rwanda in October to guarantee qualification. Their fate may also hinge on Benin’s remaining fixtures against the Wasps and the Super Eagles.
SAFA Yet to Comment
SAFA has not yet issued a public statement on the matter, leaving supporters concerned over the potential fallout. Mokoena’s availability for the final qualifiers also remains uncertain, adding to the tension ahead of critical fixtures.
Also read: Bafana Bafana World Cup Dream in Jeopardy Over Mokoena Suspension
Road to the 2026 World Cup Intensifies
This disciplinary case comes at a pivotal stage for South Africa as they aim to secure their first World Cup appearance since 2010. Mokoena has been a key figure in Bafana’s midfield, and any suspension could significantly impact the team’s chances.
Fans and analysts will be closely monitoring FIFA’s decision, as the outcome could reshape South Africa’s path to the 2026 World Cup in North America.
