OFFICIAL: FIFA Sanctions South Africa for Fielding Ineligible Player Against Lesotho
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Sele Media Africa Reported by Mafeng Gyang Adams
OFFICIAL: FIFA Sanctions South Africa for Fielding Ineligible Player Against Lesotho
Zurich, Switzerland – September 29, 2025 FIFA has officially sanctioned the South African national football team, docking them three points and three goals after it was confirmed that an ineligible player featured in their recent 2026 World Cup qualifying match against Lesotho.
The decision was announced via a statement from FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee, citing a clear violation of Article 22 of the FIFA World Cup Regulations and Article 55 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. (Source: FIFA.com, BBC Sport Africa, KickOff.com)
As a result of the ruling, the match initially a 2-1 victory for South Africa has been awarded to Lesotho as a 3-0 win by default. The South African Football Association (SAFA) has also been fined CHF 10,000 (approximately ₦13 million). “FIFA remains committed to fair play and equal application of the rules across all member associations,” the statement read.The decision drastically affects South Africa’s position in Group E of the CAF World Cup qualifiers, pushing them down in the standings with crucial fixtures remaining. (Source: CAFOnline.com, Reuters Africa)
In a press release, SAFA admitted to a “clerical error” but has announced plans to appeal the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), arguing that the player in question had previously served his suspension. “We acknowledge the ruling but will pursue all available legal remedies,” SAFA President Danny Jordaan stated. (Source: SAFA.net, TimesLIVE)
Sele Media Africa will provide updates as the appeal process and group standings evolve.
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