The Secretary-General of the Lesotho Football Association (LFA), Mokhosi Mohapi, has admitted that the association failed to file its protest against South Africa’s alleged use of an ineligible player in accordance with FIFA statutes. However, he insists that FIFA must uphold fairness in interpreting the rules.
Bafana Bafana are currently leading Africa’s Group C in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers with five points, but they face a potential three-point deduction for fielding midfielder Teboho Mokoena against Lesotho last Friday, despite his suspension.
South Africa secured a 2-0 victory in that match, courtesy of goals from Relebohile Mofokeng and Jayden Adams. However, it was later revealed that Mokoena, who had accumulated two yellow cards in previous qualifiers against Benin and Zimbabwe, should not have been allowed to play. The oversight has now put South Africa at risk of disciplinary action from FIFA.
While the LFA is pushing for a ruling, the protest might not hold weight as it was not submitted within FIFA’s stipulated timeframe of two hours post-match or 24 hours thereafter.
“FIFA should do what is right for the good of the game, but if you look at the article that talks about protest, it is a non-starter because the protest was not lodged in accordance with the statute,” Mohapi told Newzroom Africa.
He, however, pointed to Article 8.3 of FIFA’s regulations, which states that a suspended player should have been automatically ineligible. “The ball is in FIFA’s court. It is up to them to make a decision that is consistent with what they have done in the past and what they should be doing in the future to ensure the sport is played fairly,” he added.
Reports also suggest that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is keenly watching the situation, as a potential point deduction for South Africa could reignite Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes. However, Mohapi dismissed suggestions that Lesotho’s actions were influenced by Nigeria’s interests.
“Whether we get the three points or not is not a matter for consideration. The letter was sent on Tuesday, and we are in constant communication with FIFA and SAFA. There is no bad blood between us and SAFA. We do not want to be drawn into Nigeria’s qualification ambitions. Let us all play the game on the field with strict adherence to the regulations,” he stated.
After six rounds of matches in Group C, Nigeria currently sits fourth with seven points, six points behind South Africa. The outcome of FIFA’s decision could have significant implications for the remaining qualification battles.
