The South African Football Association has confirmed it will appeal FIFA’s decision to overturn Bafana Bafana’s 2–0 win over Lesotho in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The ruling stems from claims that Teboho Mokoena should not have been eligible to play in the match, which took place in March.
Following the disciplinary ruling, FIFA awarded Lesotho a 3–0 victory and fined SAFA R216 000. The result also moves South Africa down to second in Group C, behind Benin on goal difference.
SAFA Questions Fairness of Procedure
SAFA expressed frustration with the process followed by FIFA, saying the decision was made without transparency.
“As SAFA, we are deeply disappointed with this unprecedented outcome noting that it was delivered by a single-member panel without reasons, and without affording the Association an opportunity to present legal arguments,” the federation stated.
The association has formally requested written reasons and intends to take the matter to the FIFA Appeals Committee within the required 10 days.
How the Ruling Impacts Qualification
The ruling puts extra pressure on Bafana ahead of their final fixtures in the group:
- 10 October – vs Zimbabwe
- 14 October – vs Rwanda
Coach Hugo Broos is expected to finalise his squad this week, with players reporting for camp on Sunday. South Africa will likely have to win both matches to stay in control of their qualification path if the appeal is not successful.
Teboho Mokoena at the Centre of the Storm
Mokoena has been one of South Africa’s standout performers in recent campaigns, making the eligibility controversy even more significant. With no detailed ruling yet provided, several questions remain unanswered:
- Was there a suspension or registration issue?
- Did FIFA overlook SAFA’s right of representation?
- Could the case influence other teams and fixtures?
SAFA believes the process was flawed and is determined to have the decision reviewed.
Reaction From Fans and Football Circles
The punishment has caused outrage among supporters, many of whom feel the team is being penalised unfairly. The loss of three points not only affects the standings but also interrupts South Africa’s momentum in qualifiers.
There’s growing concern that the timing of the ruling may disrupt preparations for the upcoming fixtures.
What Could Happen Next?
Depending on the written reasoning and the appeal, several scenarios are possible:
- The original result is restored
- Only the fine is reduced
- The sanction is upheld entirely
The outcome could determine whether South Africa qualifies on merit or faces further obstacles before 2026.
Read also: FIFA Strips Bafana Bafana of 3 Points Over Teboho Mokoena Ineligibility
SAFA’s appeal marks a critical moment in South Africa’s qualification journey. With Teboho Mokoena at the centre of the dispute, the focus now shifts to both legal action and on-field results.
Should SAFA fight this ruling all the way, or should attention turn fully to winning the last two matches?
