Concerns have emerged over the potential impact on South Africa’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification following revelations that Teboho Mokoena may have played against Lesotho while ineligible, gathered Nigeriasoccernet.com.
The Controversy
Mokoena’s Yellow Cards:
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Nov 18, 2023 – Booked in Bafana’s 2-1 win over Benin.
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June 11, 2024 – Received another yellow in 3-1 win against Zimbabwe.
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June 17, 2024 – Played in 2-0 win against Lesotho, despite FIFA’s rules stating a suspension should apply after two yellow cards in the same competition.
FIFA Disciplinary Code:
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A player with two yellow cards in separate matches of a FIFA competition must serve a one-game suspension.
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Yellow cards from World Cup qualifiers do not reset due to participation in AFCON qualifiers.
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A formal protest must be filed within 24 hours of the match for FIFA to act.
Potential Consequences
South Africa could face sanctions if found guilty, including forfeiting the match against Lesotho.
No official protest was filed by Lesotho, leaving FIFA’s next steps uncertain.
Current Situation
Mokoena has been left out of Bafana’s squad for their next match against Benin at Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny on Tuesday.
South Africa currently leads Group C with 10 points, but any FIFA action could drastically affect their standing.
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