The Digest:
FIFA has initiated disciplinary proceedings against the South African Football Association (SAFA) for allegedly fielding suspended midfielder Teboho Mokoena in a World Cup qualifier against Lesotho. The charge, prompted by complaints from Group C rivals including Nigeria, could reshape the qualification landscape.
Key Points
- Mokoena was suspended for one match due to yellow card accumulation against Benin and Zimbabwe.
- SAFA allegedly played him in the Lesotho qualifier, violating FIFA disciplinary regulations.
- Nigeria, Benin, and Lesotho raised concerns about FIFA’s initial silence on the issue.
- If found guilty, South Africa will forfeit the match 3-0, losing three points in Group C.
- Their total would drop from 17 to 14 points, tightening the race for World Cup qualification.
- Nigeria’s chances would improve, though they must win their final two matches to contend.
- SAFA has until September 22 to respond to FIFA’s charges.
The case underscores the high stakes and razor-thin margins in World Cup qualifying, where off-pitch regulations can alter destinies as decisively as on-pitch performances.
Sources: TheCable
