Bafana Bafana veteran Themba Zwane has received a three-match ban for his sending off against Mexico in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 36-year-old came off the bench against the co-hosts but got sent off for violent conduct in the 84th minute.
On Wednesday, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee confirmed the extend of Zwane’s ban:
“The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has imposed the following sanction on South Africa’s player Themba Zwane who was sent off as a result of a direct red card during the FIFA World Cup 2026™️ match between Mexico and South Africa played at Mexico City Stadium on 11 June 2026: 3-match suspension for breach under article 14 paragraph 1 e) of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.
“The decision is subject to appeal to the FIFA Appeal Committee.”
Zwane will now miss the last two games of the group stages and would also miss a potential Round of 32 clash, should Bafana make it out of the group stages.
Mshishi has made 55 appearances for Bafana since making his debut against Australia in 2014, scoring 12 goals.
Meanwhile, banana return to action on Thursday evening, 18:00 (SAST), taking on Czechia in what is basically a must-win match after both sides missed their first-round games.
The match will be played at the Mercedez Benz Stadium, before Bafana return to Mexico to finish off the group stages against Korea Republic on 25 June.
