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•As FIFA takes first step in Mokoena’s yellow card saga
FIFA has reportedly opened disciplinary proceedings into South Africa’s decision to field Teboho Mokoena against Lesotho despite the midfielder’s suspension.
If investigated thoroughly, it could have serious consequences for Bafana Bafana, and potentially boost Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying hopes to an extent.
According to multiple reports, including SABC Sport, FIFA has confirmed that both Mokoena and the South African Football Association (SAFA) face charges of breaching disciplinary regulations relating to the use of an ineligible player.
The case has now been referred to FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee, with SAFA and the player given six days to submit their response.
The controversy stems from Mokoena’s bookings earlier in the qualifying series.
The Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder received two yellow cards in separate matches, which under FIFA rules should have triggered an automatic suspension.
However, he was fielded in South Africa’s 2-0 victory over Lesotho, and a protest was lodged demanding the result be overturned to a 3-0 defeat in their favour.
If Lesotho’s protest is upheld, South Africa would lose three points and see its goal difference swing dramatically — from +2 to -3.
That would hand Lesotho the win and potentially alter the balance in Group C, where Nigeria and South Africa are battling for qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
