The South African Football Association (SAFA) has apologised to citizens after an administrative error cost Bafana Bafana crucial points in their bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
On Monday, FIFA handed South Africa a three-point deduction for fielding ineligible midfielder Teboho Mokoena in a Group C qualifier against Lesotho. Mokoena, who should have been suspended after accumulating two yellow cards earlier in the campaign, featured in the 2-0 win. The result was overturned, with Lesotho awarded a 3-0 victory.
The sanction reduced South Africa’s tally from 17 points to 14, dropping them to second place in Group C on goal difference, while Benin Republic moved into top spot. With only two games remaining, Bafana Bafana must win their final fixtures against Zimbabwe and Rwanda to keep their qualification hopes alive.
In a statement, SAFA expressed regret:
“We apologise to the nation for this administrative oversight and remain committed to supporting Bafana Bafana. The players and technical team have worked extremely hard, and we will focus on securing maximum points in the matches ahead.”
Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie condemned SAFA’s handling of the situation and announced a formal investigation:
“The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture will lead a thorough probe into the incompetence that led to this sanction. Accountability will be ensured, and a comprehensive report will be shared with the public to prevent future failures.”
SAFA confirmed it will lodge an appeal with FIFA’s Appeals Committee within the mandatory 10-day window. Meanwhile, Group C remains wide open, with Benin Republic set to face Rwanda and Nigeria in their final games, as South Africa fight to recover from the costly error.
