The South African national team should not have played midfielder Teboho Mokoena in their World Cup qualifier against Lesotho on Friday.
The player had received yellow cards in previous matches against Benin and Zimbabwe, which meant he was suspended. However, South Africa fielded the 28-year-old player and won the match 2-0.
Following this incident, the Lesotho Football Association submitted an official complaint to FIFA. According to FIFA’s tournament regulations, a response to the appeal is expected within 24 hours.
South Africa is currently leading their group with a five-point advantage. FIFA’s decision could result in South Africa forfeiting their victory, leading to a 3-0 technical loss. If this happens, the point gap between Lesotho and South Africa would be reduced to just one.
This situation could also benefit Nigeria significantly. The Super Eagles fell six points behind the group leaders after drawing 1-1 with Zimbabwe.
Winning the group is crucial because only the top teams from each group will qualify directly for next year’s 48-team tournament, which will be hosted in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.