FIFA sanction brings embarrassment to SA, says minister Gayton McKenzie
2026 FIFA WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS
Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie
Image: Supplied
The lingering uncertainty surrounding Bafana Bafana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign has now reached its conclusion, with Fifa officially confirming sanctions against South Africa for fielding an ineligible Teboho Mokoena in their match against Lesotho in March.
The Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder played in the 2-0 victory over their neighbours at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, despite being on two yellow cards and therefore suspended. Although Lesotho never lodged a formal complaint, the error was highlighted by rivals Nigeria.
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie acknowledged the ruling, which included a three-point deduction, the removal of three goals, and a fine of approximately R215,000 for violating article 19 of the Fifa Disciplinary Code and article 14 of the tournament’s preliminary regulations. Mokoena himself escaped further punishment and was issued only a warning.
“This development is deeply regrettable and has brought embarrassment to our nation and the game of football. Mckenzie said
“As the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, I have taken note of the recent decision by FIFA to deduct three points from Bafana Bafana in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
“This development is deeply regrettable and has brought embarrassment to our nation and the game of football.
“We acknowledge that this situation has brought South Africa into disrepute, and we must take full responsibility for addressing it. We thank FIFA for swift action and not making us wonder and wait in agony about our fate.”
With just two rounds of fixtures remaining, Group C has been thrown wide open. South Africa have dropped to second place on 14 points, with Benin taking top spot on goal difference.
McKenzie vowed consequences would follow: “The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) will lead a thorough investigation into the incompetence that led to this sanction. We are committed to uncovering the root causes of this failure and ensuring accountability.”