FIFA has indeed sanctioned South Africa, deducting three points from them for fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in their World Cup qualifier against Lesotho on March 21, 2025. Mokoena was serving a suspension due to accumulated yellow cards but played in the match, which South Africa won 2-0. As a result, the match has been forfeited, and Lesotho has been awarded a 3-0 victory.
Key Details:
– Points Deduction: South Africa has been deducted three points, reducing their total from 17 to 14 points.
– Fine: The South African Football Association (SAFA) has been fined 10,000 Swiss Francs (approximately $12,536.04).
– Warning: Teboho Mokoena has received an official warning.
– Current Standings: South Africa is now tied with Benin on 14 points, but Benin leads the group due to a superior goal difference.
– Upcoming Matches: South Africa’s upcoming fixtures are against Zimbabwe on October 10 and Rwanda on October 14.
The decision has reshaped the dynamics of Group C, with all four teams still in contention for qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The ruling also highlights the importance of strict adherence to FIFA regulations, reminding national associations of the consequences of fielding suspended players.
