In a dramatic turn of events, FIFA has stripped South Africa of three vital points in the 2026 World Cup qualification race, following the illegal fielding of an ineligible player.
The controversy erupted after South Africa’s 2–0 victory over Lesotho, where Teboho Mokoena was fielded despite being suspended due to two earlier yellow cards in Group C matches. FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee ruled that the error was a breach of competition regulations.
As punishment, South Africa forfeits the match, handing Lesotho a 3–0 victory on paper. In addition, the South African Football Association (SAFA) has been fined CHF 10,000.
The decision has sent shockwaves across Group C, altering the dynamics of the qualification race and tightening the battle for top positions. With Nigeria, Benin, Lesotho, and other contenders vying for a World Cup ticket, every point now carries even greater weight.
For South Africa, the punishment is a bitter setback that underscores the importance of administrative discipline in football. For Lesotho, it is an unexpected boost that could shape their qualification journey.
As the road to the World Cup continues, the focus will not only be on performance on the pitch but also on strict compliance with FIFA’s rules off it.
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