FIFA has formally launched disciplinary proceedings against the South African national football team following allegations of fielding an ineligible player, midfielder Teboho Mokoena, during their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying fixture against Lesotho held in March 2025. This announcement has sent ripples through African football circles, with the outcome potentially affecting South Africa’s standing in the qualifiers.
According to official statements from FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee, the charge stems from claims that Mokoena was not properly registered or cleared to participate in the match, thereby breaching the tournament’s eligibility rules. Such violations are taken seriously under FIFA regulations, which are designed to ensure fairness and integrity across all qualification matches worldwide.
The match in question saw South Africa secure a crucial victory against Lesotho, and any ruling against them could lead to sanctions ranging from fines and point deductions to disqualification from the competition. This would have significant ramifications not only for South Africa’s World Cup ambitions but also for the broader football community across the continent.
South African Football Association (SAFA) has yet to issue an official response, but insiders suggest that the team’s legal representatives are preparing to present evidence aimed at challenging the allegations. Meanwhile, football analysts and fans await the outcome of the investigation, which could set important precedents for how eligibility disputes are handled in future qualifiers.
FIFA’s decision underscores the organisation’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of competition as the world’s best teams vie for a place at the 2026 World Cup, scheduled to be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The ruling is expected in the coming weeks, with both football authorities and supporters keenly watching developments that could reshape the African qualifying landscape.
