The South African Football Association (SAFA) plans to appeal FIFA’s decision to deduct three points from Bafana Bafana and fine the association. FIFA punished South Africa for fielding midfielder Teboho Mokoena, who was ineligible during their 2026 World Cup qualifier against Lesotho in March.
Match Result Overturned
Bafana Bafana originally won the match 2-0. However, FIFA overturned the result and awarded a 3-0 win to Lesotho. FIFA ruled that Mokoena should have been suspended after receiving two yellow cards in earlier games. This made him ineligible to play in the qualifier.
Impact on Group Standings
This points deduction affects South Africa’s position in Group C. Their six-point lead over Nigeria now shrinks to just three points. Meanwhile, the Benin Republic has taken the top spot on goal difference. This decision tightens the race for World Cup qualification significantly.
SAFA’s Response
SAFA called FIFA’s ruling “unprecedented” and expressed disappointment. They said FIFA made the decision without giving them a chance to explain or argue their case. SAFA has asked FIFA for a written explanation. They also plan to appeal to FIFA’s Appeals Committee within the 10-day deadline.
Bafana Bafana’s Road Ahead
To keep their World Cup hopes alive, Bafana Bafana must win their final two group matches against Lesotho and Zimbabwe in October. At the same time, Benin and Nigeria have crucial games coming up. The group remains highly competitive as the final matches approach.
