The South African Football Association (SAFA) has confirmed that FIFA has formally opened an investigation into midfielder Teboho Mokoena’s participation in a 2026 World Cup qualifier despite being ineligible.
SAFA Chief Executive Officer, Lydia Monyepao, revealed that FIFA has written to the association demanding an explanation as to how Mokoena featured in Bafana Bafana’s 2–0 victory over Lesotho in March.
Mokoena should have been suspended for that game after accumulating two yellow cards in earlier qualifiers. If found guilty, FIFA could overturn the result, awarding Lesotho a 3–0 win.
“We have received communication from FIFA about the investigation they have launched in terms of the Lesotho match that Teboho Mokoena was fielded; we received it yesterday,” Monyepao told iDiski Times.
“So we’re preparing our response to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee which is ultimately required of us as an association.”
The case has significant implications for Group C standings. With two games left, South Africa lead with 17 points, ahead of Benin Republic (14 points) and Nigeria (11 points). Both Nigeria and Benin are closely monitoring FIFA’s decision, which could reshape the qualification race.