The South African Football Association (SAFA) has announced plans to appeal FIFA’s decision to dock Bafana Bafana three points and overturn their 2-0 victory against Lesotho in March’s World Cup qualifier.

FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee ruled on Monday that South Africa breached regulations by fielding midfielder Teboho Mokoena, who should have been suspended after picking up two yellow cards earlier in the campaign. The ruling not only awarded Lesotho a 3-0 win but also fined SAFA CHF 10,000.

The sanction has reshaped Group C, cutting South Africa’s once healthy lead over Nigeria to just three points and propelling Benin Republic to the top of the standings on goal difference.

In response, SAFA expressed deep dissatisfaction, labelling the punishment “unprecedented” and “procedurally unfair.” The federation noted that the verdict was delivered by a single-member panel, without detailed reasoning or the chance to make legal submissions. SAFA confirmed it has requested written reasons and will file a formal appeal with FIFA’s Appeals Committee within the 10-day deadline.

For now, the ruling has thrown the group wide open. Hugo Broos’ men must beat both Lesotho and Zimbabwe in their remaining fixtures to maintain their qualification push. Meanwhile, Benin Republic will look to capitalise when they face Rwanda before hosting Nigeria in what could be a decisive clash.

The Super Eagles, still in the hunt, must also deliver maximum points against Zimbabwe and Benin to keep their World Cup dream alive. With just two rounds left, the race for Group C’s sole ticket to the 2026 finals is finely balanced.