2026 WCQ: FIFA opens disciplinary case against South Africa
By Tosin Omojola –
The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has officially opened an investigation into South Africa for fielding an ineligible player during one of their 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The world football governing body responded to a protest calling for disciplinary action to be taken against the Group C leaders.
South Africa fielded Teboho Mokoena, who was supposed to be suspended for their match against Lesotho due to card-related offenses.
In launching its disciplinary proceedings, FIFA confirmed that both Mokoena and the South African Football Association (SAFA) face charges for breaching several disciplinary regulations, including the use 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, Bafana Bafana could be docked three points — a development that could significantly impact the Group C standings of the CAF qualifiers, with Nigeria and Benin Republic potentially benefiting.
With two rounds of matches left, South Africa currently top the group with 17 points after eight games, while Benin and Nigeria trail in a distant second and third place, respectively.
