SAFA Rejects FIFA’s Three-Point Deduction, Labels Decision “Unprecedented”

The South African Football Association (SAFA) has come out strongly against FIFA’s decision to dock them three points in the ongoing 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, calling the ruling “unprecedented” and “unfair.”

On Monday, FIFA announced that South Africa would forfeit their March 21 fixture against Lesotho, after fielding ineligible midfielder Teboho Mokoena. The ruling not only stripped Bafana Bafana of three points but also handed Lesotho a 3-0 victory. Additionally, SAFA was fined CHF 10,000, while Mokoena himself received a warning.

But SAFA insists the judgment was flawed. In a fiery statement, the body argued that the disciplinary process lacked transparency and fairness.

“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,” the statement read.

The ruling had immediate implications, dropping South Africa from top spot in Group C and handing Nigeria and Benin Republic a fresh lifeline in the race for a place at the 2026 World Cup.

Opinion: A Blow to South Africa, a Boost to Their Rivals

This saga is more than just about paperwork or technicalities — it cuts to the very heart of football governance. FIFA insists rules are rules, and eligibility breaches must be punished, no matter the circumstances. But SAFA’s claim of being denied a chance to defend themselves is worrying. If true, it raises questions about due process and fairness in the world’s most popular sport.

On the flip side, this controversy has reignited the hopes of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, who now see a pathway to qualification suddenly wide open. Benin Republic also find themselves unexpectedly leading the group. For rivals, this feels like justice; for South Africa, it feels like betrayal.

But here’s the key: football is played not just on the pitch, but also in the boardrooms where regulations and appeals shape the destiny of nations. If SAFA successfully appeals, Group C could be thrown into yet another twist.

For now, though, South Africa must channel their disappointment into performance. Complaints may win sympathy, but victories win qualification tickets. And in the unforgiving world of international football, that’s all that matters.