2026 World Cup Qualifier: "I Feel Fulfilled" – Lesotho FA Secretary General

2026 World Cup Qualifier: "I Feel Fulfilled" – Lesotho FA Secretary General

Sampson Adedeji

The Secretary General of the Lesotho Football Association (LeFA), Mokhosi Mohapi, has expressed satisfaction after FIFA’s disciplinary committee deducted three points from South Africa for fielding an ineligible player, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Earlier this week, FIFA sanctioned Bafana Bafana following the unlawful participation of midfielder Teboho Mokoena in a World Cup qualifying fixture. The decision reshaped Group C of the African qualifiers and handed Lesotho a crucial boost in their campaign.

Speaking to Sowetan, Mohapi described the verdict as a vindication of LeFA’s position:

 “FIFA has done well to respect its own regulations. We had always maintained that our pursuit of this case had nothing to do with South Africa. Lesotho is a bona fide member of FIFA and we played the rightful role to ensure the football rules are respected. We are happy to have been vindicated.”

Mohapi, however, admitted that the timing of the ruling could have had a greater impact if resolved earlier.

“We would have loved to have played the last matches earlier this month with the case finalised already. We would have approached the games differently, knowing we had nine points. But the group is now interesting because four of the five teams all have a chance going into the last matches.”

The LeFA Secretary General further aimed a subtle dig at South Africa’s coach, Hugo Broos, insisting his earlier warnings were justified.

“Mr Broos should know I was not talking nonsense when I said SA has a case to answer. I now feel fulfilled.”

With the sanction shaking up the qualification picture, Lesotho now sees themselves in a stronger position to challenge for a historic place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.