South Africa’s World Cup qualifying hopes suffered a major setback on September 29, 2025, as FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee sanctioned the South African Football Association (SAFA) for fielding an ineligible player.

In a statement Monday, FIFA said midfielder Teboho Mokoena, who was suspended for accumulated yellow cards, played in the March 21 match against Lesotho. South Africa had won 2-0, but the result has been overturned.

“The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has declared the match forfeited by South Africa, awarding Lesotho a 3-0 victory,” the statement read.

SAFA was fined 10,000 Swiss Francs (about $12,500), while Mokoena received a warning. “The forfeiture decision remains subject to a potential appeal,” FIFA added.

The ruling reshapes Group C of the African qualifiers, dropping South Africa to second behind Benin on goal difference. Nigeria and Rwanda are now just three points adrift.

With only group winners guaranteed automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., Mexico and Canada, South Africa face a tougher path. They travel to Zimbabwe in October before hosting Rwanda.

FIFA said SAFA has 10 days to request a detailed explanation or appeal the ruling. For now, the 3-0 loss stands, leaving South Africa’s World Cup dream in jeopardy.