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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