South Africa face disciplinary proceedings after fielding suspended midfielder Teboho Mokoena in their 2-0 World Cup qualifying win over Lesotho, a mistake that could see them docked points and jeopardise their hopes of reaching the 2026 finals.
Mokoena should have served a one-match ban for two prior yellow cards, but played regardless.
The South African Football Association admitted the error, though FIFA’s delayed action had fuelled speculation the matter was closed.
If found guilty, the match would be forfeited as a 3-0 loss under FIFA rules, cutting South Africa’s lead in Group C and leaving them tied with Benin on 14 points, with Nigeria and Rwanda only three points behind.
Only the group winners progress directly to next year’s tournament in North America, with two qualifiers left to play.
South Africa travel to Zimbabwe before hosting Rwanda, while rivals Benin face Rwanda and Nigeria.
