MBOKAZI HIT WITH FIFA FINE AND ONE-MATCH BAN
Mbekezeli Mbokazi has been hit with a disciplinary blow from FIFA: The 20-year-old defender has received a one-match ban and a hefty fine following the red card he picked up while representing Bafana Bafana in a World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe’s national football team.
The dismissal, which came during a tense goalless draw at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, triggered a disciplinary review by FIFA’s committee.
As a result, Mbokazi was fined 5,000 Swiss francs, around R108,000 and a one-match ban.
The offence was classified under Article 14 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, which deals with unsporting behaviour towards an opponent or other person.
While the punishment is serious, the good news for Mbokazi is that he’s already served the suspension earlier this year when South Africa played against Rwanda, and he’ll be eligible for the upcoming fixtures.
Despite the setback, Mbokazi remains a key figure for both his club, Orlando Pirates and the national team, and the incident serves as a stark reminder of the fine line players walk at the highest level.
Despite the controversy, Mbokazi’s discipline and form throughout the season have drawn praise from both fans and analysts.
His composure at the back and growing maturity suggest this setback will only fuel his determination to improve.
With key fixtures ahead for both Bafana Bafana and Orlando Pirates, all eyes will be on how the young defender responds to the challenge and reaffirms his place among South Africa’s rising football stars.
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