FIFA has officially deducted three points from South Africa in the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign for fielding an ineligible player, midfielder Teboho Mokoena, in their preliminary match against Lesotho on March 21, 2025. This ruling resulted in the forfeiture of the match in favor of Lesotho with a 3-0 scoreline.
South Africa's points tally has been reduced from 17 to 14, placing them level on points with Benin but behind on goal difference, which moves Benin to the top of Group C. Nigeria, previously trailing significantly, now holds 11 points, just three points behind the two leaders, thus enhancing the Super Eagles' hopes of World Cup qualification.
The sanction includes a CHF 10,000 fine for the South African Football Association (SAFA) and a warning to Mokoena. Though subject to appeal, the decision reshuffles the group standings and intensifies the competition as Nigeria prepares for crucial upcoming matches, including a vital encounter against Benin scheduled for October 14, 2025.