SAFA Appeals FIFA's 3-Point Deduction Over Ineligible Player: Apology Issued

The South Africa Football Association (SAFA) has initiated the process to appeal FIFA's decision to deduct three points due to fielding an ineligible player during a 2026 World Cup qualifier against Lesotho. FIFA sanctioned SAFA for the player's participation despite prior warnings.

SAFA expressed disagreement with FIFA's ruling and has formally begun the appeal process to challenge the point deduction. The association has apologized to fans for the oversight and emphasized the team's focus on securing maximum points in the remaining matches to advance in the CAF qualification group standings.