FIFA confirms ban for ex-Kaizer Chiefs player and Mbokazi

Orlando Pirates defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi has been handed a one-match ban and a hefty fine by FIFA following his red card in South Africa’s goalless World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe last month.

Meanwhile, another former Kaizer Chiefs forward Bonfils Cale Bimenyimana was hit with a three-match suspension after being sent off early in Burundi’s qualifier against Kenya, coached by Benni McCarthy. His punishment was among the most severe in FIFA’s October disciplinary report.

Mbokazi’s dismissal at Moses Mabhida Stadium was reviewed by FIFA’s disciplinary committee, which confirmed a 5,000 Swiss francs fine (approximately R104,000) and a one-match suspension. The South African Football Association is expected to cover the fine.

He served his ban in Bafana Bafana’s final Group C qualifier against Rwanda in Nelspruit, where South Africa secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Mbokazi is now eligible to return for the Africa Cup of Nations finals in Morocco next month.

Also sanctioned was Zimbabwe captain and ex-Chiefs striker Knowledge Musona, who received the same punishment as Mbokazi — a one-match ban and 5,000 Swiss francs fine for his red card in the same match.

FIFA’s disciplinary report confirms that while red cards carry automatic bans, the committee can impose additional sanctions depending on the severity of the offence.