SAFA Faces Scrutiny After Bafana Bafana’s Points Deduction in World Cup Qualifiers

South Africa’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup could face early turbulence as questions arise over Bafana Bafana’s points deduction during the qualifiers. The national team narrowly secured qualification for the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, but the episode has sparked calls for accountability.

The controversy stems from South Africa fielding Teboho Mokoena against Lesotho despite the midfielder being suspended due to accumulated yellow cards. FIFA docked three points from Bafana, temporarily affecting their standing in Group C and raising concerns over administrative oversight.

While the team ultimately booked its place in next year’s World Cup, the public outcry over the incident has been tempered. Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie, however, has indicated that action will still be pursued. Speaking on 947’s MSW, McKenzie emphasized the importance of accountability.

“Let’s start with Hugo Broos, he’s a gentleman and as a captain of the ship, he feels that if one person in his team made a mistake, he wants to fall on that sword. But I’m not gonna accept that, because Hugo Broos is an old man,” McKenzie said. “He’s gonna retire and if we don’t take action, what lesson would we have learned? You must understand what was at stake. All the players there have never played at the World Cup. This would have been an opportunity they missed.”

McKenzie also noted that he is approaching the matter strategically to avoid interference issues with FIFA. “The coach said, ‘No, leave the issue.’ I’m not gonna leave the issue. The letter is out already, going to CAF and FIFA, to inform about our action and then we must investigate,” he added.

At the center of the scrutiny is the team manager, who oversees logistical and operational preparations for tournaments like the World Cup. Vincent Tseka currently holds this role, but it remains unclear whether SAFA will retain him to oversee the 2026 preparations.

The department is expected to release a formal statement detailing the steps SAFA will take to ensure accountability and prevent similar administrative errors in future campaigns. The incident highlights the high stakes involved in international football and the importance of proper governance ahead of South Africa’s return to the World Cup stage.