2026 WCQ: Lesotho petitions FIFA over Mokoena’s ineligibility, calls Nigeria to join protest

The Lesotho Football Association (LFA) has formally written to FIFA, challenging South Africa’s use of Teboho Mokoena in last Friday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

LFA argues that Mokoena, who played in South Africa’s 2-0 win over Lesotho, was ineligible due to accumulated yellow cards and should have been suspended.

The association is demanding that South Africa be stripped of the three points from the victory.

According to FIFA’s regulations, a player who receives two yellow cards in separate matches must serve a one-game suspension.

Mokoena was booked in South Africa’s 2-1 win over Benin in November 2023 and their 3-1 victory against Zimbabwe in November 2024, making him ineligible for the Lesotho match.

LFA secretary-general Mokhosi Mohapi confirmed the formal protest and insisted that the South African Football Association (SAFA) should have been aware of the suspension.

“The question is, was a rule broken? If yes, we are fully entitled to protest and get the points,” Mohapi told Sowetan Live.

Mohapi also acknowledged that Nigeria may join the protest, as the situation affects the entire Group C standings.

“We have heard that Nigeria also wants to protest, and they too are entitled to that because the result prejudices everyone,” he added.

If FIFA rules in Lesotho’s favour, South Africa could forfeit the three points, and a 3-0 victory would be awarded to Lesotho.

A similar ruling occurred in 2013 when FIFA penalized Ethiopia for fielding an ineligible player against Botswana.

Speculation over Mokoena’s eligibility intensified after he was omitted from South Africa’s squad against Benin, raising questions about SAFA’s awareness of the issue.

With FIFA yet to issue a response, South Africa face the prospect of losing crucial World Cup qualifying points.