The South African Football Association (SAFA) has made it clear that the country’s World Cup dream will not be derailed by any boardroom drama. With FIFA confirming its investigation into Bafana Bafana midfielder Teboho Mokoena’s eligibility, CEO Lydia Monyepao insists the real battle will be won on the pitch next month.
FIFA Case Brings Uncertainty
The storm began when reports surfaced that Mokoena featured in South Africa’s 2-0 victory over Lesotho in March while serving a suspension. If FIFA rules against SAFA, the result could be overturned, awarding Lesotho a 3-0 win and docking Bafana three points.
Such a deduction would put South Africa in a tight spot, dropping them level with Benin and leaving their qualification hopes in jeopardy.
But Monyepao has been quick to calm fears. “We’ve been waiting for FIFA to formally confirm the investigation, and now that it’s here, we’ve already appointed attorneys to prepare our defence,” she said.
Eyes On Zimbabwe And Rwanda
Despite the looming disciplinary cloud, SAFA is doubling down on its belief that six points from the final two qualifiers will settle the debate. South Africa face Zimbabwe away before returning home to play Rwanda in October — fixtures that will decide whether Bafana Bafana make the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
For Monyepao and head coach Hugo Broos, the maths is simple: win both, and qualification is secure no matter what FIFA decides.
“Teboho, Nigeria, whatever else is being said, it’s all noise to us. The focus is on getting maximum points in October,” Monyepao stressed.
Social Media Reaction
Fans online are torn between optimism and anxiety. On X, some supporters argue that SAFA should never have risked playing Mokoena while suspended, calling it “another example of administrative sloppiness.” Others remain defiant, pointing to the team’s strong form and urging the public to rally behind Bafana as they chase a ticket to the United States.
A Familiar Story In South African Football
Controversy off the field is nothing new for South African football. From past qualification campaigns marred by administrative disputes to the lingering frustration over CAF officiating, the national team is no stranger to distractions. What is different this time is the sense of unity coming from SAFA, players, and coaches — all insisting the road to America remains in their own hands.
As Monyepao summed it up: “No matter what happens, we need to ensure we’re going to the USA. The country must back us in October so that we can push the team over the line.”
Source: SABC Sport
Featured Image Source: Bafana Bafana on X
