FIFA Disciplinary Blow: South Africa Loses Points in World Cup Qualifiers

South Africa's World Cup qualification hopes take a hit as FIFA rules against them for fielding ineligible player Tebeho Mokoena, altering a win over Lesotho into a 3-0 loss. The decision leaves South Africa and Benin tied on points in Group C, intensifying the competition.

South Africa's pursuit of World Cup qualification was dealt a significant blow after FIFA's disciplinary committee sanctioned the team for using an ineligible player, Tebeho Mokoena, against Lesotho.

The verdict nullified South Africa's 2-0 victory, awarding Lesotho a 3-0 walkover victory in the March fixture. Consequently, South Africa was stripped of three crucial points.

Despite still leading the Group C standings, South Africa is now tied with Benin, both having 14 points, intensifying the qualifying challenge with two matches remaining.