Themba Zwane setback for Bafana as FIFA dismisses appeal

Bafana Bafana have been dealt a significant blow after the FIFA Disciplinary Committee rejected an appeal from the South African Football Association (SAFA) to overturn Themba Zwane’s three-match suspension.

The Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder is currently serving the ban, which was imposed following a red card he received during South Africa’s World Cup opener against co-hosts Mexico last week.

Themba Zwane when he received a straight red card against Mexico. Photo: Imago

In a statement, SAFA expressed its frustration with the decision. “We are disappointed with the outcome of our appeal because we strongly believe that the punishment is far harsher than the offense that Themba is said to have committed,” the association stated.

Themba Zwane to miss Round of 32

Zwane will miss his third and final match when Bafana Bafana take on fellow co-hosts Canada in a crucial Last-32 clash in Los Angeles this Sunday, June 28.

Themba Zwane of South Africa receives a red card against Mexico. Image: Imago

The incident occurred when Zwane was sent off after a VAR review for a raised arm on Mexican defender Roberto Alvarado. Bafana coach Hugo Broos vehemently contested the decision, arguing that Alvarado had blocked Zwane, who was merely trying to maneuver around him without any malicious intent.

Broos described the subsequent three-match ban as “much, much too severe” and questioned FIFA’s consistency, pointing to a similar challenge by Lionel Messi that did not result in a VAR intervention. Despite SAFA’s official appeal to have the suspension reduced or overturned, FIFA’s committee has upheld the original ruling.

Silver lining for Bafana Bafana

Themba Zwane when he was sent off against Mexico. Photo: Imago

As a result of the ban, Zwane was forced to sit out the crucial group stage matches against Czechia and South Korea.

However, there is some positive news for Bafana Bafana as Midfielder Teboho Mokoena is set to return to action after serving a one-match suspension during the game against South Korea.

The team is scheduled to return to their base camp in Pachuca, Mexico, on Thursday night before traveling to Los Angeles for their knockout stage showdown with Canada.