South Africa’s national team, Bafana Bafana, inched nearer to automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Nigeria.
The result keeps them at the top of Group C, holding the advantage for the lone automatic qualification spot.
But the path to Qatar is no longer completely in their hands, as a potential off-field issue now threatens to disrupt their campaign.
Shadow Looms Over SAFA and Teboho Mokoena
Questions have lingered over Bafana and the South African Football Association (SAFA) since March, when the team fielded Teboho Mokoena in a 2-0 win over Lesotho, despite the midfielder being suspended.
While FIFA had not commented publicly at the time, new reports indicate that the situation is now escalating.
SABC has reported that FIFA sent a formal letter to SAFA, confirming that both the player and the association face charges for breaching disciplinary regulations, specifically for fielding an ineligible player.
Potential Forfeit and Point Deduction
The case is expected to go before the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, with SAFA and Mokoena given a few days to submit their response.
Should the worst-case scenario unfold and South Africa be forced to forfeit the match, they could lose three log points.
Such a deduction would see Bafana level with Benin at 14 points after eight matches, though they would remain at the top on goal difference.
The implications for the remainder of the qualifiers are significant, turning upcoming fixtures into potential must-win games.
Upcoming Fixtures Now Under the Spotlight
South Africa will next face Zimbabwe and Rwanda in October.
If the team is docked points, these matches could take on far greater urgency, with little room for error in Group C.
Despite earlier reports suggesting that FIFA’s latest rulings might spare South Africa from sanctions, the official outcome remains uncertain.
SAFA has yet to issue a public statement, but pressure is mounting for a response as the qualifiers continue.
Where Bafana Bafana Stand in Group C
For now, Bafana Bafana lead the pack in Group C, but the looming disciplinary case serves as a reminder that World Cup qualification isn’t guaranteed off the pitch.
Every decision and ruling could now have a major impact on South Africa’s route to Qatar.