FIFA rejects Bolivia appeal against World Cup match forfeits

ZURICH (AP) FIFA has rejected the Bolivian soccer federation's appeal against forfeiting two World Cup qualifying matches for fielding an ineligible player.

ZURICH (AP) FIFA has rejected the Bolivian soccer federation's appeal against forfeiting two World Cup qualifying matches for fielding an ineligible player.

FIFA says its appeal committee ruling confirms Bolivia's 0-0 draw with Chile and 2-0 win over Peru last September are 3-0 losses by default.

Bolivia fielded Paraguay-born defender Nelson Cabrera as a late substitute in both matches when he was not qualified by FIFA rules to represent his adopted country.

Even without the sanctions, Bolivia would stand ninth in the 10-team South American qualifying group with only an outside chance of advancing.

The Bolivian federation can appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

The FIFA appeal committee also upheld a fine of 12,000 Swiss francs ($12,100) imposed on Bolivia.