South Africa has received a boost ahead of its final FIFA World Cup Group A fixtures after FIFA confirmed that Themba Zwane and Sphephelo Sithole will serve only a one-match suspension following their red cards against Mexico. The two Bafana Bafana players were sent off during the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the Azteca Stadium, where South Africa suffered a 2-0 defeat to the host nation. Initial concerns suggested that both players could be suspended for the remainder of the group stage, ruling them out of matches against Czechia and South Korea. However, FIFA has decided to im

South Africa has received a boost ahead of its final FIFA World Cup Group A fixtures after FIFA confirmed that Themba Zwane and Sphephelo Sithole will serve only a one-match suspension following their red cards against Mexico.

The two Bafana Bafana players were sent off during the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the Azteca Stadium, where South Africa suffered a 2-0 defeat to the host nation.

Initial concerns suggested that both players could be suspended for the remainder of the group stage, ruling them out of matches against Czechia and South Korea. However, FIFA has decided to impose a one-match ban, meaning the pair will miss only South Africa's upcoming clash against Czechia.

The decision is particularly significant for head coach Hugo Broos, as experienced playmaker Themba Zwane will be available for the crucial final group match against South Korea.

In Zwane's absence, rising star Relebohile Mofokeng could be handed a rare starting opportunity on the World Cup stage. Meanwhile, Thalente Mbatha is expected to replace Sphephelo Sithole in central midfield alongside Teboho Mokoena.

South Africa will face Czechia on 18 June 2026 at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 18:00 South African time. Bafana Bafana will be aiming to secure a positive result to keep their hopes of advancing to the knockout stage alive.

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