The decision was finalized by FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee on Monday, September 29, 2025, creating a major shift in Group C standings.
South Africa faced penalties for breaching regulations during a 2026 World Cup qualifying match in March. The player, Teboho Mokoena, was ineligible due to accumulating two yellow cards but was still fielded in their 2-0 win against Lesotho.
Following this infraction, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee not only declared the game forfeited but also fined South Africa $12,000. This ruling significantly boosts Rwanda’s Amavubi's chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, provided the team wins its remaining two matches.
Group C has now intensifying competition. The latest standings show Benin atop with 14 points, tied with South Africa in second place. Nigeria, in third, shares 11 points with Rwanda, which is currently fourth. Lesotho stands fifth with 9 points, while Zimbabwe lags at the bottom with 4 points after eight games.
South Africa's penalty for fielding Mokoena, who had two yellow cards, opens up unexpected opportunities for Rwanda amid the race for the 2026 World Cup.