Dhaka, Sept. 30 -- South Africa has been docked three points in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers for fielding an ineligible player, Sports Minister Gayton Mckenzie confirmed on Monday.

The FIFA Disciplinary Committee also fined the South African Football Association (SAFA) 10,000 Swiss Francs (around USD 12,540), with the ruling published on the same day.

"This development is deeply regrettable and has embarrassed both our nation and the game of football. We acknowledge that this has brought South Africa into disrepute, and we must take full responsibility," Mckenzie said in a statement.

He thanked FIFA for acting swiftly, saying it spared the country a prolonged period of uncertainty. The minister also announced that the Department ...