The South African Football Association (SAFA) has rubbished Lesotho’s query to FIFA regarding the eligibility of Teboho Mokoena in last week’s World Cup qualifier.
A top SAFA official has stated that there is “no cause for alarm” despite concerns that South Africa may face a points deduction for fielding an ineligible player.
Mokoena, who plays for Mamelodi Sundowns, had accumulated two yellow cards prior to the match against Lesotho, which should have resulted in his suspension. However, he was fielded in the 2-0 win over Lesotho, prompting concerns about the team’s eligibility.
According to the FIFA disciplinary code, a player who receives two yellow cards in separate matches of the same competition is automatically suspended from the next match.
However, the SAFA official clarified that Lesotho failed to file a protest within the stipulated 24-hour deadline, effectively putting South Africa “in the clear.”
The FIFA code states that protests must be filed in writing within 24 hours of the end of the match, indicating the relevant grounds.
The 24-hour time limit cannot be extended, and the corresponding competition regulations may shorten the protest deadline accordingly.
While it remains uncertain whether FIFA can take action without a protest from Lesotho, the SAFA official’s statement suggests that South Africa is unlikely to face disciplinary action.
The team has opened up a five-point gap at the top of Group C, following their 2-0 win over Benin in Abidjan.
The controversy surrounding Mokoena’s eligibility has sparked debate about the application of FIFA’s disciplinary code. However, with Lesotho’s failure to file a timely protest, it appears that South Africa has avoided a potential points deduction.
Great