The South African Football Association (SAFA) has suffered a significant setback ahead of Bafana Bafana’s FIFA World Cup Round of 32 encounter with Canada after FIFA dismissed its appeal against Themba Zwane’s three-match suspension.
SAFA confirmed the decision in a statement released on Thursday, ending hopes of having the punishment reduced before South Africa’s first-ever World Cup knockout match.
Zwane was handed the suspension by FIFA’s disciplinary committee following the red card he received during South Africa’s opening Group A fixture against tournament co-hosts Mexico last week. The experienced midfielder is therefore set to remain unavailable as Hugo Broos’ side continue their historic World Cup campaign.
Reacting to the verdict, SAFA expressed disappointment with FIFA’s decision, insisting that the punishment was excessive.
“We are disappointed with the outcome of our appeal because we strongly believe that the punishment is far harsher than the offence that Themba is said to have committed,” the association said.
The ruling means Zwane will miss South Africa’s highly anticipated last-32 showdown against Canada in Los Angeles on Sunday, 28 June, dealing a blow to Broos’ plans as Bafana Bafana chase a place in the Round of 16.
There was, however, some positive news for South Africa, with midfielder Teboho Mokoena returning to contention after serving a one-match suspension during the victory over South Korea.
Bafana Bafana secured their place in the knockout stages for the first time in FIFA World Cup history following a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Korea. The result ensured they finished second in Group A behind co-hosts Mexico.
Mexico topped the group with a perfect record after completing a 3-0 win over the Czech Republic, making it three victories from three matches and underlining their status as one of the tournament’s form teams.
South Africa are expected to return to their base camp in Pachuca, Mexico, before travelling to Los Angeles for the crucial encounter against Canada.
Despite the disappointment surrounding Zwane’s failed appeal, Broos and his players will be eager to maintain their momentum and continue their remarkable World Cup journey when they face the Canadians in what promises to be a fiercely contested knockout tie.
