FIFA has launched disciplinary proceedings against South Africa midfielder Teboho Mokoena, after it emerged he played in the March 21 World Cup qualifier against Lesotho despite being suspended for yellow card accumulation.
In an official communication to the South African Football Association (SAFA), FIFA confirmed that both the player and the federation are being charged for breaching disciplinary regulations by fielding an ineligible player. SAFA has been given until September 20 to submit its defence to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee.
Should the charge be upheld, South Africa risk being docked three points, with a possible adjustment to their goal difference also on the table. A financial penalty has not been ruled out either, particularly since Lesotho did not file an official protest within the required timeframe.
Precedents in African Qualifiers
Cases of ineligible player usage have influenced World Cup qualifying campaigns in the past:
Nigeria, 2018 Qualifiers: Shehu Abdullahi featured in a 1–1 draw against Algeria despite suspension. FIFA awarded Algeria a 3–0 win, deducting three points from Nigeria.
Ethiopia, 2014 Qualifiers: Minyahil Beyene’s appearance while suspended cost Ethiopia three points after FIFA overturned their win over Botswana.
Equatorial Guinea, 2026 Qualifiers: FIFA ruled Emilio Nsue ineligible, handing out two 3–0 forfeits. The federation’s appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) was dismissed.