Bafana Bafana in hot soup as FIFA opens case over fielding of ineligible Mokoena in WC qualifier

South Africa are not yet off the hook as FIFA have officially opened an investigation about the controversial fielding of Teboho Mokoena in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

Having collected two yellow cards in the initial matches, the Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder was suspended for the game against the Crocodiles that was played in March. However, Bafana Bafana played him in that game that Hugo Broos' men went to win 2-0.

No official complaint was made within 48 hours as required by the law, but the Super Eagles of Nigeria, Lesotho, and recently Benin have been pushing FIFA to act. 

Nevertheless, the World Football Governing body has been silent about the matter until this week when they decided to crack the whip.

What reports say

“FIFA have officially opened disciplinary proceedings against the South African Football Association (SAFA) and Bafana Bafana midfielder Teboho Mokoena,” SABC reported on Thursday. 

“In a letter to SAFA dated 15 September 2025 – seen by the public broadcaster, FIFA confirmed that both the player and the association face charges of breaching several disciplinary regulations, including the fielding of an ineligible player.   The case has been referred to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, with SAFA and Mokoena given six days to submit their response,” they concluded.

If South Africa are found guilty, they will forfeit the game, which will give Benin, Rwanda and Nigeria a chance. A deduction will mean Bafana Bafana will be on 14 points, the same as the Cheetahs, and three more than Nigeria and Rwanda, respectively, with two rounds of qualifiers to go.