South Africa’s path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been seriously affected after the team was penalized for using an ineligible player.
Midfielder Teboho Mokoena took part in the 2-0 victory over Lesotho in March, even though he was meant to be suspended following two yellow cards.
A FIFA disciplinary panel confirmed that South Africa violated competition regulations. As a result, the match has been overturned to a 3-0 forfeit.
In addition, the South African Football Association (SAFA) has been fined 10,000 Swiss francs (around $12,500 or £9,340), while Mokoena has received an official warning.
Group C standings reshuffled
The ruling has shaken up the standings in Group C of African qualifying. South Africa has dropped from first to second place, trailing Benin on goal difference.
Only the team finishing at the top of the group is guaranteed a spot at next year’s tournament in North and Central America.
The new ranking also gives Nigeria and Rwanda fresh opportunities to secure qualification, as both nations are now three points behind the leaders.
Upcoming matches critical for qualification
Benin are set to face Rwanda and Nigeria in the final two rounds of qualifying, scheduled between 10 and 14 October.
Meanwhile, South Africa will travel to Zimbabwe before returning home to host Rwanda in a decisive clash.
SAFA has a 10-day window to challenge FIFA’s decision if they wish to appeal.
How South Africa sanction affects Group C
|
Group C |
MP | GD | PTS | |
| 1 | Benin | 8 | 4 | 14 |
| 2 | South Africa | 8 | 3 | 14 |
| 3 | Nigeria | 8 | 2 | 11 |
| 4 | Rwanda | 8 | 0 | 11 |
| 5 | Lesotho | 8 | -3 | 9 |
| 6 | Zimbabwe | 8 | -6 | 4 |
South Africa had held a three-point cushion at the summit of Group C, but the ruling by FIFA’s disciplinary panel has changed the picture. Benin now occupies first place on goal difference, while Bafana Bafana slips to second, and Lesotho is awarded three points.