The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has awarded Nigeria’s Super Eagles three points and three goals in their recent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Libya after the match was disrupted under controversial circumstances.
In addition to this, CAF imposed a $50,000 fine on the Libya Football Federation, citing breaches in the AFCON regulations and poor treatment of the Nigerian team.
This decision from CAF follows an intense investigation into the treatment Nigerian players endured while in Libya, shedding light on issues surrounding sportsmanship and fair play in African football.
Unfolding Controversy and Match Abandonment
The match between Nigeria and Libya was initially scheduled to take place in Benghazi on October 15, 2024, as part of the ongoing qualifiers for the 2025 AFCON.
However, the Nigerian team faced a series of unexpected and hostile actions that made it impossible for them to participate in the game.
Reports revealed that the Super Eagles were left stranded for hours at a Libyan airport.
During this time, they were denied access to basic amenities, including food and internet, while they awaited clearance to proceed to their match venue.
The situation escalated as Nigerian football authorities raised concerns and lodged complaints with CAF over what they described as “inhumane treatment.”
CAF’s Probe and Verdict
Following Nigeria’s complaints, CAF launched an investigation into the incident.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe voiced strong concerns, stressing that the organization would not tolerate unsportsmanlike conduct or unfair treatment of any team.
“Our mandate at CAF is to promote unity and respect in African football,” Motsepe said.
“Situations like this do not reflect the values we uphold, and we will act accordingly.”
CAF’s Disciplinary Board, led by Chairperson Mr. Ousmane Kane from Senegal, conducted a thorough review, which included testimonies from both Nigerian and Libyan officials.
The five-member committee, consisting of members from Senegal, Kenya, Chad, Lesotho, and South Africa, reached a conclusion after examining the Libyan Federation’s actions.
Breach of AFCON Regulations
CAF determined that the Libya Football Federation had violated Article 31 of the AFCON Regulations as well as Articles 82 and 151 of the CAF Disciplinary Code.
As a result, the scheduled match between Libya and Nigeria was declared a forfeit, awarding Nigeria a 3-0 victory and three crucial points.
This decision places Nigeria in a stronger position within their qualifying group.
With this win, Nigeria now leads with 10 points from four matches, solidifying their position to advance to the AFCON finals in Morocco in December 2025.
CAF also ordered the Libya Football Federation to pay a fine of $50,000 within 60 days, underscoring the seriousness of the infractions.
Diplomatic Tensions and Social Media Outcry
The incident caused an outpouring of support for the Super Eagles on social media, as Nigerian fans expressed anger and disappointment over Libya’s treatment of their team.
Nigerian fans and officials used platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to raise awareness, with players and fans calling for justice.
The situation even prompted diplomatic interventions, as Nigerian officials coordinated with Libyan authorities to facilitate the team’s safe departure from Libya.
Captain William Troost-Ekong expressed his relief at CAF’s ruling, sharing on X, “Justice served! We stood our ground for fair treatment, and now we can move forward with pride.”
Implications for Nigeria’s AFCON Qualifying Path
This CAF decision means Nigeria is now closer to securing a spot in the 2025 AFCON.
With 10 points, Nigeria holds a four-point lead over second-placed Benin Republic, while Rwanda follows with five points, and Libya is at the bottom with only one point.
A win or a draw in their next game against the Cheetahs of Benin Republic, scheduled for November 14 in Abidjan, would officially confirm Nigeria’s qualification.
Fans in Nigeria are hopeful that the Super Eagles will continue their strong performance, especially with the CAF verdict now in their favor.
CAF’s Stand on Integrity in African Football
CAF’s ruling sends a strong message to all African football federations, emphasizing that actions compromising sportsmanship will not be tolerated.
By enforcing strict penalties on the Libyan authorities, CAF has demonstrated its commitment to fair play and integrity.
CAF’s Chairperson of Disciplinary Board, Ousmane Kane, stated, “Football is a uniting force, and we must ensure it remains fair for every team, regardless of where they are from.”
This decision not only benefits Nigeria but sets a precedent for how similar cases may be handled in the future.
Future Precautions for Nigerian Teams Abroad
The Nigerian Football Federation has expressed gratitude to CAF for the prompt action and highlighted the importance of safeguarding teams’ welfare during international competitions.
They stressed that this verdict would encourage Nigerian teams to continue representing the nation confidently on the global stage.
Nigeria’s Sports Minister also urged other African countries to prioritize the treatment and safety of visiting teams, saying, “Football is a shared passion. We should ensure that our actions reflect the spirit of unity.”
Following the ruling, Nigerian fans have expressed relief and renewed enthusiasm for the Super Eagles’ journey to the 2025 AFCON.
