FIFA has taken away three points from South Africa in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers for using an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in their March match against Lesotho.
The world football body said the game is now awarded 3-0 in favour of Lesotho. South Africa also loses three goals from their record, must pay a fine of CHF 10,000, and Mokoena has been given a warning. SAFA has 10 days to appeal the decision.
This ruling changes Group C standings. South Africa, who were first with 17 points, now drop to second place behind Benin Republic.
The group is now wide open as South Africa still has to play Zimbabwe and Rwanda, while Benin will face Rwanda and Nigeria. The Super Eagles will meet Lesotho and Benin in their final two games.
Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup in North America have now received a major lift.