FIFA probes Mokoena suspension controversy within South African football association
The South African Football Association (SAFA) has received an investigation notice from FIFA regarding Teboho Mokoena's eligibility in Bafana Bafana's World Cup qualifier against Lesotho in March. The potential decision could reshape the race for qualification in Group C of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
SAFA CEO Lydia Monyepao has confirmed that they received the communication from FIFA this week. Monyepao stated that they are preparing a response to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee.
The investigation stems from FIFA questioning how Mokoena was allowed to play despite being suspended, as he had accumulated two yellow cards prior to the match. If FIFA rules against South Africa, their 2-0 victory could be overturned into a 3-0 defeat.
Currently, South Africa leads Group C in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers with 17 points. However, a ruling against Bafana Bafana could potentially open the door for Benin and Nigeria to close the gap. The Benin Republic is in second place with 14 points, while the Super Eagles of Nigeria remain in contention with 11 points and have two matches left to play.
Both Benin and Nigeria are closely monitoring the outcome of the FIFA investigation. A ruling in favour of South Africa would maintain their lead, while a defeat could see either Benin or Nigeria move ahead. The race for qualification in Group C is heating up, and the outcome of the investigation could be a game-changer.
The potential consequences of the investigation extend beyond Group C. The investigation into Teboho Mokoena's eligibility for Bafana Bafana's World Cup qualifier against Lesotho could have significant implications for the qualification race in Group C of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The race for qualification in the 2026 World Cup could be reshaped by the outcome of the FIFA investigation.
As the investigation unfolds, both Bafana Bafana and their competitors will be keeping a close eye on the developments. The outcome of the investigation could determine the fate of South Africa's journey towards the 2026 World Cup.
