Bafana Bafana Could Escape Points Deduction After Controversial Mokoena Incident
- Teboho Mokoena played in Bafana Bafana's 2-0 win over Lesotho on March 21, 2025, despite accumulating two yellow cards in previous qualifiers
- Lesotho failed to file a formal protest within FIFA's 24-hour window after the match
- South African football fans expressed outrage over the oversight, demanding accountability from SAFA
Bafana Bafana's fielding of Teboho Mokoena in the 2025 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho could have led to a points deduction, but South Africa may avoid penalty as Lesotho missed the 24-hour protest window.
Source: Twitter
Mokoena’s Suspension Controversy
Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Teboho Mokoena was fielded against Lesotho on March 21, 2025, despite accumulating two yellow cards in earlier World Cup qualifying matches against Benin and Zimbabwe.
According to FIFA’s disciplinary rules, players who receive two yellow cards within separate matches must serve a one-match suspension, a penalty Mokoena seemingly bypassed. Football fans across South Africa were quick to express concern, fearing that the mistake could have far-reaching consequences for the national team’s World Cup qualification campaign.
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Online outrage spread as many speculated that Bafana Bafana could face a points deduction, which would drastically alter the group's standings.
The 24-Hour Protest Rule
However, Lesotho’s window to lodge a formal protest has already closed.
Under FIFA’s regulations, teams have 24 hours from the match's conclusion to file an official complaint regarding player eligibility.
Despite the incident potentially being in violation of the rules, Lesotho did not submit a protest within this period.
Lesotho report South Africa to CAF, FIFA
The Lesotho FA have confirmed that they have filed a complaint to FIFA over Bafana Bafana’s selection of the suspended Tebogo Mokoena for their match day five World Cup qualifier fixture.
Mokoena played in Bafana’s 2-0 victory over Lesotho but was supposed to be suspended and as a result, Hugo Broos’ side might have the three points deducted.
Lesotho FA secretary-general Mokhosi Mohapi said: “We were made aware of Mokoena’s bookings, and we have since sent a formal inquiry to CAF and FIFA. We have heard that Nigeria also want to protest and they too are entitled to that because the result (last Friday) prejudices everyone. Suppose we fielded a defaulter and got the points, Bafana would have done the same. Unfortunately, the law is the law, and SAFA should have known about the bookings. We have no hard feelings. We want those points.”
Social media reaction
Social media discussions were rife with mixed reactions. While some fans demanded harsh consequences, others were more optimistic, noting that the failure to protest within the required timeframe might save Bafana from sanctions.
As one Twitter user, Mr Havoc, noted:
Points won't be deducted. Lesotho's 24-hour lapse means they're out of time to challenge this.
What happens if South Africa get points deduction
South Africa will lose three points despite victory against Lesotho on match day 5 if they are found guilty of breaking FIFA rule. This means the three points will be awarded to Lesotho and Bafana Bafana will then drop from 13 points to 10 points in Group C but still at the top of the group.
The possible point deduction for South Africa will also mean Lesotho be awarded the three points.
Source: UGC
What Happens Next for Bafana Bafana?
It appears that Bafana Bafana may have dodged a major bullet.
Without the formal protest lodged by Lesotho within the stipulated 24 hours, the issue may be considered closed, and no points deduction will follow.
However, this does not entirely rule out other consequences, such as a potential fine from FIFA or CAF (the Confederation of African Football). Despite the relief, fans and pundits alike have urged SAFA (South African Football Association) to ensure that such an oversight never happens again.
One user, Chris Excell, voiced frustration:
If this mistake is true, heads must roll at SAFA. From Danny Jordaan to the cleaners, everyone involved should be fired!”
Lessons Learned
While the possible legal reprieve could save South Africa from the devastating blow of losing points, the incident has served as a stark reminder of the importance of following regulations to the letter.
Ronwen Williams Wins Hearts with Gesture
Briefly News previously reported that Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams took time out of training to sign autographs for young Ivorian fans ahead of their match against Benin on March 25, 2025.
Nomso Obiajuru was a contributing writer in this article
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Source: Briefly News
