South Africa’s Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has condemned FIFA’s decision to deduct points from Bafana Bafana for fielding an ineligible player, calling it an embarrassment, as SAFA vows to appeal.
South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has described FIFA’s decision to deduct points from Bafana Bafana in the ongoing 2026 World Cup qualifiers as an embarrassment to both the country and world football.
FIFA’s Ruling
On Monday, FIFA announced that Lesotho had been awarded a 3-0 victory in their Group C qualifier against South Africa, which originally ended 2-0 in Bafana’s favour on March 21.
The sanction followed South Africa’s decision to field Teboho Mokoena, who should have been suspended after accumulating two yellow cards earlier in the group stage.
As a result of the ruling:
- Benin Republic now top Group C with 14 points on goal difference.
- South Africa drop to second, also on 14 points.
- Nigeria’s Super Eagles remain third with 11 points, level with Rwanda in fourth.
Minister McKenzie’s Reaction
In a strongly worded statement, McKenzie said the development was unacceptable and pledged accountability:
He added that a comprehensive report would be compiled and shared with the public to provide clarity and prevent future occurrences.
Rallying Support for Bafana
Despite the setback, McKenzie urged South Africans to rally behind the national team in their remaining qualifiers:
SAFA to Appeal
Meanwhile, the South African Football Association (SAFA) has confirmed it will appeal FIFA’s decision, arguing that the punishment is too severe and undermines the team’s qualification campaign.
With just two matches left in Group C, the ruling has intensified the battle for the sole automatic qualification spot for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
