Zimbabwe Warriors’ World Cup Group Thrown Wide Open After FIFA Confirmation On Bafana Rules Breach

Zimbabwe Warriors’ hopes of qualifying for the World Cup may have received a major boost after reports coming out of South Africa suggest SAFA may have received official communication from FIFA via Confederation of African Football (CAF) of their penalty for allegedly fielding an ineligible player.

According to Soccer Laduma’s Siya Crew, Bafana are likely to be docked points for fielding Teboho Mokoena in their Match against Lesotho, despite the player being reported as ineligible for accumulating two yellow cards against Benin and Zimbabwe, a violation of FIFA regulations that emphasizes the importance of compliance in international competitions.

“An error was made, and we can’t be pointing fingers at individuals right now – what happened has happened, and we can’t go back. Those points are gone, as tough as that is to accept, but there are more to play for to ensure qualification. An announcement is pending,” a well-placed source told Soccer Laduma crew, speaking on condition of anonymity.

The potential docking of points could see Bafana losing 3 points, and dropping to 10 points from 6 games. Lesotho will be awarded the points and take their tally to 9 points, throwing the group standings wide open with Benin and Rwanda both on 8 points, ahead of Nigeria with 7 points.

Zimbabwe, which currently anchors the group with 4 points from 6 matches, will have renewed hope of advancing in the qualification process. The exact impact on Zimbabwe’s standing will depend on their upcoming matches and results from other teams in the group.

The South African Football Association (SAFA) is expected to make an official announcement regarding the ruling and its implications anytime soon. This announcement will be crucial in clarifying the situation and providing further details on the next steps for Bafana Bafana.