Libya Challenges CAF Verdict Granting Nigeria Victory in AFCON Qualifier Match
The Libyan Football Federation has officially lodged an appeal against the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) recent ruling that awarded Nigeria three points and a 3-0 victory in a disrupted Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. The match, originally scheduled for October 15 in Benina, Libya, faced complications that led to its abandonment.
CAF’s verdict also imposed a hefty fine of $50,000 on Libya, citing violations in managing the Nigerian team’s arrival and conditions. The federation now seeks to overturn what it considers an “unfair” decision.
Reports from Libyan news outlet alwasat.ly indicate that the federation has enlisted the expertise of Tunisian lawyer Ali Abbas to represent them in the appeal process. The ruling followed an investigation sparked by the Nigerian Football Federation’s complaint about a chaotic travel experience. The Super Eagles reportedly endured a grueling 20-hour journey, including a diverted flight and an extensive wait at Labraq Airport, located 300 kilometers from their intended destination in Benghazi. Nigerian players faced inadequate facilities, lacking essential provisions like food and water, ultimately leading them to abandon the match and return home.
CAF’s disciplinary committee, chaired by Ousmane Kane, ruled in favor of Nigeria, identifying violations of Article 31 of the Africa Cup of Nations Regulations, as well as Articles 82 and 151 of the CAF Disciplinary Code. The committee’s decision effectively means that Libya forfeited the match, resulting in the awarded 3-0 scoreline in favor of Nigeria.
If the ruling stands, Nigeria will be well-positioned for qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations finals in Morocco, while Libya’s chances diminish significantly, leaving them with just one point in Group D.
