Teboho Mokoena is under investigation by FIFA, according to reports
According to multiple reports, FIFA has officially launched disciplinary proceedings against the South African Football Association (SAFA) and midfielder Teboho Mokoena over his participation in a 2026 World Cup qualifier despite being suspended.
The match in question was South Africa’s 2-0 win over Lesotho on March 21, 2025, during which Mokoena played despite having accumulated enough yellow cards to trigger a one-game ban.
The case has now been referred to FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee. SAFA and Mokoena have been given six days to respond to the allegations, with a deadline set for September 20, 2025.
Lesotho had lodged a protest after the match but did so outside the official deadline window for appeals, complicating their ability to demand corrective action.
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If FIFA finds that the rules were breached, several sanctions could be enforced. These include a possible forfeiture of the match, resulting in a 3-0 win awarded to Lesotho, fines, and suspensions for the player or association.
South Africa currently tops Group C in the qualification campaign with 17 points. A three-point deduction would bring them level with Benin, and intensify the race for the top spot.
SAFA has, however, not yet issued an official comment on the matter.
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