FIFA precedents on ineligible players: What South Africa risks with Mokoena’s case

South Africa’s fielding of Teboho Mokoena against Lesotho in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier has drawn comparisons with past cases where teams were punished for similar infractions. Mokoena, who accumulated two yellow cards in previous qualifiers, should have served a suspension but played in Bafana’s 2-0 victory at Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane.

While no official protest has been filed, FIFA’s disciplinary code states that a team can be sanctioned even if no complaint is made, as seen in previous cases. Here’s a look at two similar incidents and their consequences:

Ethiopia’s Case – 2014 World Cup Qualifiers

• Incident: Ethiopia fielded Minyahile Beyene despite his suspension in a 2-1 win over Botswana on June 8, 2013.

• FIFA’s Decision:

  • Ethiopia was stripped of three points and the result was changed to a 3-0 victory for Botswana.

  • Ethiopia’s Football Federation was fined $6,348.

  • FIFA initiated disciplinary proceedings without Botswana filing a protest.

Nigeria’s Case – 2018 World Cup Qualifiers

• Incident: Nigeria played Abdullahi Shehu against Algeria in a 1-1 draw, despite him having two prior yellow cards.

• FIFA’s Decision:

  • Algeria was awarded a 3-0 victory.

  • The Nigerian Football Federation was fined $6,000.

  • This decision did not affect Nigeria’s qualification, as they had already secured their spot in Russia.

What This Means for Bafana Bafana

According to FIFA’s disciplinary code, if a player accumulates two yellow cards in a competition, they must serve a one-match suspension. While FIFA has the authority to act without a protest, it is unclear if they will investigate South Africa’s case.

Should FIFA deduct three points from Bafana Bafana, they would still remain two points clear at the top of Group C. However, with crucial qualifiers left, any punishment could impact their World Cup hopes.

Advantage South Africa

Even in the worst-case scenario, South Africa will still have a strong position in the group, with home advantage in their remaining fixtures. They will face:

• Lesotho (likely to be played in South Africa)

• Nigeria (home)

• Zimbabwe (home)

• Rwanda (home)

With the potential to host most of their remaining games, Bafana Bafana remains a strong contender for World Cup qualification, despite the uncertainty surrounding Mokoena’s eligibility.