FIFA ruling on Mokoena keeps Bafana on course for 2026 World Cup

Bafana Bafana have seemingly been cleared of any wrongdoing by world football governing body FIFA following the controversy surrounding the fielding of midfielder Teboho Mokoena in a 2026 World Cup qualifier first leg against Lesotho.

Mokoena featured in South Africa’s March clash against Lesotho, a match Bafana won 2-0, despite being technically suspended due to accumulation of yellow cards. 

An administrative error allowed the Mamelodi Sundowns star to play, sparking protests from Lesotho. 

However, by the time the anomaly was discovered, the window to lodge an official appeal or pretest had closed.

Nevertheless, Lesotho continued to protest verbally, urging FIFA to punish South Africa with a points deduction. 

Their stance remained the same when the two teams met again in Bloemfontein this month, with the Lesotho Football Association even threatening further escalation should Mokoena be fielded in the return leg. 

Coach Hugo Broos, however, remained resolute, including the midfielder in the squad. Mokoena responded with an impressive performance as Bafana secured a 3-0 win.

Nigeria also protested against Mokoena’s participation before and after their recent draw with South Africa at the Free State Stadium, arguing that his involvement violated eligibility rules.

Despite these challenges, FIFA’s latest rulings and disciplinary decisions, released on Monday, confirm that South Africa faces no sanctions over the matter. 

Therefore Bafana have seemingly been officially cleared and will retain the points earned in all relevant fixtures.

The decision comes at a crucial stage of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. South Africa currently lead their group with 17 points, three ahead of Benin and six clear of Nigeria, with just two matches remaining. 

The squad now has a straightforward path to qualification: four points from their upcoming encounters against Zimbabwe and Rwanda, or even three, will secure their first World Cup appearance since 2010.

The ruling also brings relief for coach Hugo Broos, who has managed a disciplined campaign amid the distractions, ensuring the focus remains on performance rather than administrative controversies. 

For Bafana fans, the FIFA decision provides clarity and allows the team to channel their energies fully towards sealing qualification and ending the 13-year wait for a return to football’s biggest stage.

Mokoena, in particular, can now put the off-field drama behind him and concentrate on contributing on the pitch as South Africa push to make history in their 2026 World Cup campaign.