BREAKING: CAF punishes Libya over treatment of Nigeria’s Super Eagles

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has handed out its decision on the botched Nations Cup qualifier between Libya and Nigeria, which was scheduled for Tuesday, 15 October 2024. The Nigerian team decided not to go ahead with the encounter after their flight into Benghazi from Kano was diverted without prior notification to Al-Abraq International Airport and then kept waiting for over 12 hours.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) Disciplinary Board has now issued a landmark ruling regarding the Match No. 87 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifiers between Libya and Nigeria. Because Libya violated AFCON Regulations and the CAF Disciplinary Code—specifically Articles 31, 82, and 151, CAF has declared the match forfeited by Libya and awarded Nigeria a 3-0 victory.

CAF also fined the Libya Football Federation $50,000, with payment required within 60 days.

Nigeria’s team endured a gruelling experience, being stranded at the airport for over 20 hours before the match. This decision strengthens Nigeria’s position as Group D leader with 10 points from four games. The ruling also underlines CAF’s commitment to fair play and sportsmanship.

Incident Background

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) reported that the team’s chartered plane was unexpectedly diverted to Al-Abraq International Airport, despite approved landing documents. NFF President Ibrahim Gusau condemned the incident as “despicable.”

Implications for AFCON Qualifiers

This ruling significantly influences the Group D standings. Nigeria remains on top with 10 points, trailed by Benin with six points from four games, while Libya is at the bottom with one point. The top two teams in each group advance to the 24-team finals in Morocco next year.