South Africa’s Sports and Arts Minister, Gayton McKenzie, has condemned FIFA’s decision to deduct points from Bafana Bafana, calling it an embarrassment for both the nation and global football.
The sanction comes after FIFA ruled on Monday that Lesotho is awarded a 3-0 victory in the Group C qualifier held on March 21.
Originally, Bafana Bafana had secured a 2-0 win, but it was later discovered they fielded Mokoena, who should have been suspended due to accumulating two yellow cards in earlier group-stage matches.
As a result of the points deduction, Bafana Bafana now drop to second place with 14 points, while Benin Republic moves to the top of the table, also with 14 points.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles hold third position with 11 points, level on points with Rwanda in fourth.
Minister McKenzie stated that his ministry will investigate the incident and hold those responsible accountable.
“This development is deeply regrettable and has brought embarrassment to our nation and the game of football,” McKenzie said.
“The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) will lead a thorough investigation into the incompetence that led to this sanction. We are committed to uncovering the root causes of this failure and ensuring accountability. A comprehensive report will be compiled and shared with the public to provide clarity on this matter and prevent future occurrences.
“For now, we urge all South Africans to unite in support of Bafana Bafana. Let us get behind our boys in these critical games. Together, we can and must carry them on our shoulders to the USA, Canada and Mexico in 2026, and this moment must show the world that South Africans come together in moments of crisis.
“We must be the 12th man on the field for them in the last two games.”
Meanwhile, the South African Football Association confirmed they intend to appeal FIFA’s ruling.
