A South African sports lawyer has warned the South African Football Association (SAFA) that challenging FIFA’s ruling over the use of an ineligible player would be futile and costly.

FIFA docked three points and three goals from Bafana Bafana after midfielder Teboho Mokoena was fielded in a World Cup qualifier against Lesotho despite being suspended.

The decision awarded Lesotho a 3-0 victory, reshaping the race in Group C of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Speaking to local media, the lawyer described SAFA’s intention to contest the punishment as misguided.

“This appeal is going nowhere. FIFA’s regulations on player eligibility are clear and binding,” he said.

“Unless SAFA can prove procedural irregularities or bring in fresh evidence, which is highly unlikely, they are wasting their time and money.”

He advised SAFA to redirect resources towards ensuring strong performances in the remaining fixtures rather than engaging in what he termed “a dead-end legal battle.”

The sanction against South Africa has dramatically opened up Group C, where Benin Republic currently lead with 14 points, followed by Bafana Bafana on the same tally but with an inferior goal difference.

Nigeria sit behind them, hoping to take advantage of the reshuffle.