Where did Bafana Bafana go wrong? Coach Hugo Broos responds to Teboho Mokoena controversy

Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Teboho Mokoena has been a key player for Bafana Bafana in the 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers.

He has played in all but one game - against Benin, in the ongoing campaign as South Africa continues to push for their slot in the prestigious global competition to be hosted jointly by the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Prior to the fixture against Lesotho that was staged at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on Friday, March 21, Mokoena had accumulated two yellow cards.

It meant he was not supposed to be played against the Crocodiles in Group C's outing that Bafana Bafana won 2-0.

Lesotho had threatened to lodge a complaint on the same, which might see Hugo Broos' men lose three points.

The Belgian was not interested in giving too much on the issue when asked what went wrong after the game against Benin on Tuesday.

"I cannot comment on that at this point. It is an issue that will be resolved in the coming days, so I ask that you not expect any further information from me. No comment," the Belgian responded when asked about the issue.

The win against the Cheetahs opened a five-point gap between Bafana and closest challengers Benin and Rwanda who are on eight points each.

Nigeria, who were held to a shocking 1-1 draw by Zimbabwe, have seven points.

If Bafana are deducted three points, it will give their rivals hope of pushing for the World Cup ticket.