FIFA is set to award three points and three goals to Lesotho after South Africa fielded an ineligible player in their recent World Cup qualifier.

South Africa won the match 2-0, but the decision to play Theboho Mokoena, who was suspended due to accumulated yellow cards is expected to cost Bafana Bafana all three points.

Football lawyer Jonas Michael explained that FIFA’s regulations leave no room for argument, as similar cases in the past have led to automatic sanctions. In 2018, Nigeria lost three points and had three goals awarded against them for fielding Shehu Abdullahi against Algeria in a dead-rubber qualifier. FIFA imposed the punishment even though Algeria did not file a protest.

Michael dismissed claims that South Africa could escape the penalty on technical grounds. He stressed that the rules are clear, and the South African Football Association, is likely aware of the consequences. FIFA’s decision will not require a protest from Lesotho, as the regulations dictate automatic enforcement of the sanction.

The penalty will significantly impact the standings in the qualification race. South Africa, who currently leads the group, will see their advantage reduced. Lesotho, on the other hand, will receive a boost in their campaign, gaining a vital three points and an improved goal difference.

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A fine is also expected to be imposed on South Africa for the administrative blunder. FIFA has consistently enforced strict disciplinary measures against teams that fail to adhere to player eligibility rules, ensuring fairness in competition.

With four matches remaining in the qualifiers, the group is now wide open. Zimbabwe, currently at the bottom, will find themselves just four points behind South Africa, making the qualification battle even more intense.

The incident serves as a crucial reminder for national teams to carefully manage player suspensions. Such lapses can have far-reaching consequences, altering the fate of teams vying for a spot in the World Cup.

FIFA’s official confirmation of the decision is expected soon, but the outcome appears inevitable. South Africa’s hopes of securing early qualification have taken a significant hit, while Lesotho will celebrate an unexpected advantage in their pursuit of a World Cup dream.

Reported by OwnGoal Nigeria