South Africa’s World Cup Dreams Threatened Amid Yellow-Card Controversy

South Africa’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals could be significantly threatened following a yellow-card controversy involving midfielder Teboho Mokoena.

This followed an error made during the Bafana Bafana’s Match day 5 clash against Lesotho on March 21, 2025, raising concerns about the team’s eligibility and potential points deduction.

Mokoena, a South Africa’s midfielder had previously received yellow cards in the opening match against Benin and another in the subsequent match against Zimbabwe.

According to FIFA regulations, a player who accumulates two yellow cards in separate matches is required to serve one-match suspension. Consequently, Mokoena should have been ineligible to participate in the match against Lesotho.

However, despite this clear stipulation, Mokoena was included in the starting line-up of the match where he played 81 minutes before being substituted.

The revelation that he should not have been on the field could lead to serious consequences for the South African team, including a potential points deduction for fielding an ineligible player.

According to Article 67 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, the oversight could be deemed a violation of FIFA’s qualification regulations, placing the future of the Bafana Bafana’s World Cup aspirations in jeopardy.

As they prepare for their upcoming match against Benin on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, the team is looking to extend their lead at the top of the qualifying group by adding another three points.

However, if the reports regarding Mokoena’s ineligibility are confirmed, potential points deduction would be a devastating blow for head coach Hugo Broos and his squad, significantly diminishing their chances of qualifying for the prestigious tournament.