Lesotho Chief Claims South Africa Would Have Complained If They Fielded Ineligible Player

In the aftermath of a controversial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier between Lesotho and South Africa, Lesotho’s football officials have voiced their concerns regarding South Africa’s use of an ineligible player. The dispute centers on Teboho Mokoena, the Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder, who participated in the match despite being suspended for accumulating yellow cards in previous qualifiers. This oversight, unrecognized by the South African Football Association (SAFA), could now have significant consequences.

The match, held at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, saw South Africa’s Bafana Bafana secure a 2-0 victory. However, due to Mokoena’s suspension, the Lesotho Football Association (LFA) has lodged a formal complaint, which could lead to the match being forfeited and the points awarded to Lesotho.

LFA Secretary General Mokhosi Mohapi emphasized that the complaint was not driven by malice, but by a desire for fair play and adherence to regulations. Speaking to BBC Sport Africa, Mohapi said, “We are hoping for them to respect their own regulations and act appropriately. Even if they just caution South Africa, it will be okay. If they give us the points, so be it. [It would be] the cherry on top.”

Mohapi also stated that if the roles were reversed, South Africa would have likely raised a similar complaint. “If it were us who had defeated South Africa, wouldn’t they do the same?” he asked.

The LFA’s decision to raise the issue underscores the importance of strict compliance with FIFA regulations, especially when such oversights can lead to unintended competitive advantages. While South Africa’s football authorities have yet to respond formally, the situation is being closely monitored as both nations continue their campaign in the World Cup qualifiers.