FIFA has officially opened disciplinary proceedings against South Africa for fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, during a 2026 World Cup qualifying match against Lesotho in March.
The Independent Mirror reports that the midfielder, who had accumulated two yellow cards in previous matches against Benin in November 2023 and then against Zimbabwe in June 2024 – which, under FIFA rules, triggered a one-match ban.
According to South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), FIFA has levelled charges against the South African Football Association and Mokoena.
The outlet published the letter that contained the charges on their website on Thursday.
“In a letter to SAFA dated September 15, 2025 – seen by the public broadcaster, FIFA confirmed that both the player and the association face charges of breaching several disciplinary regulations, including the fielding of an ineligible player.
“The case has been referred to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, with SAFA and Mokoena given six days to submit their response.”
If found guilty, South Africa could be deducted three points and three goals, which will be awarded to Lesotho while other sanctions such as fines or suspensions could also follow.
A forfeiture would shake up the Group C standings. South Africa, who currently led with 17 points, would drop to 14 points level with Benin but still ahead on goal difference (+5 to +4).
Lesotho, meanwhile, would move from six to nine points, narrowing the gap on third-placed Nigeria and fourth-placed Rwanda, who both have 11 points.
With only two matches left, South Africa would be under pressure to beat Zimbabwe and Rwanda in October, while also hoping Benin would drop points against Rwanda and Nigeria.
