Earlier this year, Mokoena was fielded in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho in Polokwane, despite being ineligible to play due to suspension. South Africa won the game 2-0 at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, claiming three valuable points in Group C.

It is reported that an appeal was only lodged after the stipulated 48-hour window following the match, which falls outside the timeframe set by FIFA.

Teboho Mokoena in action against Nigeria in Bloemfontein - Morgan Piek

Ahead of the return fixture between Lesotho and South Africa in Bloemfontein earlier this month, the Lesotho Football Association warned Bafana Bafana not to field the Bethlehem-born Mokoena. Despite the warning, Bafana coach Hugo Broos played Mokoena, who was instrumental in the 3-0 win at the Toyota Stadium, even registering two attempts on goal.

African football powerhouse Nigeria also raised objections regarding Mokoena’s appearance in Polokwane and has been consistently putting pressure on FIFA to dock points.

FIFA is now investigating the matter. In a worst-case scenario, Bafana could be docked three points, potentially derailing their campaign. This would see South Africa drop from 17 to 14 points, but they would still remain top of Group C, ahead of second-placed Benin due to a superior goal difference. South Africa’s goals in the Polokwane match would also be expunged, leaving them with a goal difference of six, compared to Benin’s four. FIFA could alternatively impose a fine on Bafana Bafana.

SAFA CEO Lydia Monyepao confirmed that the association has formally received a letter from FIFA regarding the saga but maintained that they are not overly concerned. The focus remains on securing maximum points from the two remaining qualifiers in October, away against Zimbabwe and at home to Rwanda.

“We’ve received communication from FIFA regarding the investigation into the Lesotho match in which Teboho Mokoena was fielded,” said Monyepao.

“We’ve received it, and look, we’re not really worried about that.

Hugo Broos - Morgan Piek

“I think our focus right now is to ensure that Bafana Bafana secures maximum points come October, because whatever happens – whether points are docked or not – if we get six points in October, nothing else will matter.

“It’s all about Bafana Bafana getting to the USA, Mexico, and Canada in 2026.”

Bafana Bafana will face Zimbabwe on 6 October in an away match, which is expected to be played in Botswana, and Rwanda on 13 October. Both venues for these qualifiers are yet to be confirmed.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport