Minister Gayton McKenzie Responds to the FIFA Sanction Over Bafana Bafana. Image: Gordon Arons via Gallo Images.
(The Post News)- FIFA has finally put an end to the doubts surrounding Bafana Bafana’s qualifying quest for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In March, Bafana Bafana fielded Teboho Mokoena, who was not eligible to play, as he had received two consecutive yellow cards. Thus, FIFA has confirmed imposing punishment for the national team.
Mokoena, a vital midfielder for Mamelodi Sundowns, played in South Africa’s 2-0 victory at the Peter Mokaba Stadium even though he should have been disqualified for playing after receiving two yellow cards in a row. Lesotho chose not to formally protest, but FIFA launched a probe after Nigeria pointed out the infraction.
South Africa will fall short of both goals, lose the three points that they won in that game, and be fined almost R215,000 for violating Article 14 concerning the championship’s preparatory rules and Article 19 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code of Conduct. Fortunately, Mokoena was only given an authorized notice and was spared more punishments.
The penalties are imposed during a crucial phase of the qualifier process, significantly changing the nature of Group C with just two series of games remaining. The once-leading South Africa is now tied with Benin, who moved to the highest position of the league on goal differential, in second place with 14 points.
McKenzie Seeks Answers
Following the incident, Gayton McKenzie, Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, has made a strong statement, recognizing the seriousness of the problem and promising responsibility. In a declaration that struck a chord of rage and resolve, McKenzie promised prompt and comprehensive action.
He declared that the Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture will conduct an extensive inquiry into the negligence that led to the punishment. According to the minister, his department is committed to finding the truth and ensuring accountability.
McKenzie’s remarks capture the general annoyance of South African football supporters, a majority of whom think that this mistake was an avoidable administration mistake that devalues the squad’s diligent efforts on the field. His request for a probe demonstrates a readiness to expect a greater level of efficiency in national athletics and to directly address problems with the system.
Even though the minister refrained from criticizing specific players or assigning fault at the moment, it was evident from what he said that he saw the punishment as a betrayal of public confidence rather than just an administrative mistake, particularly in light of the optimism that was placed on Bafana Bafana’s World Cup campaign.
There are still unanswered concerns regarding how this mistake happened and which systems did not detect Mokoena’s inability to play prior to the game as McKenzie’s department gets ready to begin its inquiry. Restoring public trust in the management of national sport and preserving Bafana Bafana’s chances of winning the World Cup are the current priorities.
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