outh Africa is facing a potential three-point deduction in the FIFA World Cup African Qualifiers due to midfielder Teboho Mokoena’s alleged eligibility breach. Mokoena played in South Africa’s 2-0 win over Lesotho on March 21, 2025, despite being suspended after accumulating two yellow cards in previous matches against Benin and Zimbabwe.
FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against the South African Football Association (SAFA) and Mokoena, citing breaches of disciplinary regulations. If found guilty, South Africa could face a three-point deduction, potentially altering the dynamics of Group C and impacting their World Cup qualification chances.
SAFA has been given six days to provide a written response to the allegations, and their defense will be crucial in determining the outcome.
A points deduction would significantly affect South Africa’s chances, currently leading Group C with 10 points, ahead of Benin (8 points) and Rwanda (7 points).
If South Africa is docked points, Lesotho could be awarded a 3-0 victory, boosting their campaign and potentially changing the group’s standings.
A points deduction for South Africa would give Nigeria a chance to overtake them in the group, depending on the outcome of upcoming matches.
