South Africa’s bid to reach the 2026 World Cup has been hit by a 3-0 forfeit after FIFA ruled that Teboho Mokoena was ineligible to play in March’s qualifier against Lesotho. The original 2-0 win has been overturned, with the South African Football Association fined 10,000 Swiss Francs and Mokoena issued a warning.
Mokoena should have served a one-match suspension after two cautions earlier in the campaign. The disciplinary ruling drops South Africa from the top of Group C to second place behind Benin on goal difference, with Nigeria and Rwanda now three points back and renewed hope of catching the leaders. Only group winners qualify directly for the finals, with runners-up sent to a difficult playoff route.
The fixture in question was played on 21 March 2025 in Polokwane. FIFA’s decision comes late in the qualifying cycle and follows recent disciplinary proceedings opened this month. South Africa have ten days to appeal.
The remaining schedule heightens the stakes. Benin travel to Rwanda and Nigeria between 10 and 14 October, while South Africa visit Zimbabwe before hosting Rwanda in their final match. With the points deduction, every result in the last window could decide the group
