The South African Football Association (SAFA) has vowed to appeal FIFA’s decision to deduct three points and fine Bafana Bafana for fielding midfielder Teboho Mokoena in their March World Cup qualifier against Lesotho.
FIFA, in a ruling delivered on Monday, held that South Africa breached disciplinary rules by playing Mokoena, who was suspended after picking up two yellow cards earlier in the campaign. The decision overturned Bafana’s 2-0 win on March 21, awarding Lesotho a 3-0 victory.
The sanction has dramatically altered the Group C standings. South Africa’s six-point cushion over Nigeria has been cut to three, while Benin Republic now top the table on goal difference.
SAFA described the decision as harsh and procedurally unfair. “We are deeply disappointed with this unprecedented outcome, noting that it was delivered by a single-member panel without reasons, and without affording the association an opportunity to present legal arguments,” the federation said in a statement.
The body confirmed it has requested written reasons for the ruling and will lodge a formal appeal with FIFA’s Appeals Committee within the prescribed 10-day period.
With two matches remaining, South Africa face mounting pressure to secure wins against Lesotho and Zimbabwe in October to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Meanwhile, Benin Republic stand to benefit most from the ruling. They face Rwanda next before a decisive clash with Nigeria, who themselves must overcome Zimbabwe to stay in contention.
With just two rounds left, the Group C race—once seemingly under South Africa’s control—has been blown wide open.