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South Africa faces a FIFA probe over Teboho Mokoena’s appearance against Lesotho.
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A points deduction could tighten the Group C World Cup race.
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SAFA says the focus remains on winning in October.
South Africa says FIFA has opened a disciplinary case over Teboho Mokoena’s appearance in the March World Cup qualifier against Lesotho.
Also Read: FIFA Charges South African FA Over Ineligible Player Mokoena
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Meanwhile, SAFA has six days to respond.
A forfeit or a three-point deduction from FIFA would shake up Group C.
Nigeria would be on 11 points, while Benin Republic would be on 14, which might determine who advances to the 2026 World Cup.
SAFA Chief Executive Lydia Monyepao said the association received FIFA’s letter and is preparing its defence.
“We have received communication from FIFA about the investigation they have launched in terms of the Lesotho match that Teboho Mokoena was fielded,” – she said in a video circulated on X by Soccer Beat ZA.
She called for calm and urged everyone to stay focused on the remaining matches.
“If we get six points come October, nothing else is gonna matter — it’s all about Bafana Bafana getting to the USA, Mexico and Canada in 2026.”
Observers point to past cases for context. Nigeria was fined by FIFA in 2018 for using an ineligible player, and Equatorial Guinea lost points for Emilio Nsue’s eligibility infringement.
Eligibility restrictions can alter qualifying races, as demonstrated by those cases.
Due to certain protesters arriving late, there are still questions regarding the process and timeliness.
Still, FIFA launched the probe on its own, acting ex officio.
By the deadline, SAFA must submit its response; else, FIFA will proceed with the disciplinary action.
Meanwhile, South Africa now juggles its legal defence with on-field focus as October’s fixtures near, and fans across Africa watch how Group C takes shape.
