SAFA to appeal FIFA’s ruling to dock Bafana Bafana three points

The South African Football Association (SAFA) have confirmed that they will appeal FIFA’s decision to dock Bafana Bafana three points for fielding Teboho Mokoena.

South Africa fielded Mokoena when he should have been suspended in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on 21 March 2025.

On Monday, 29 September 2025, Bafana Bafana were sanctioned by FIFA for fielding Mokoena.

READ: Bafana Bafana’s 2026 World Cup hopes dealt a blow after FIFA sanction

“As SAFA, we are deeply disappointed with this unprecedented outcome noting that it was delivered by a single-member panel without reasons, and without affording the Association an opportunity to present legal arguments,” read the statement.

“The Association confirms that we have requested written reasons for the judgment and intend to lodge a formal appeal with the FIFA Appeals Committee within the prescribed 10-day period under FIFA’s disciplinary rules.”