BREAKING: AFCON Qualifiers: CAF Awards Victory to Super Eagles, Fines Libya for Maltreatment
In a significant decision, CAF has awarded a victory to Nigeria’s Super Eagles in the AFCON qualifiers, while imposing a fine on Libya for the maltreatment of players. Read more about the implications of this ruling.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has awarded Nigeria a 3-0 win and all the points for their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Libya.
The decision, revealed on Saturday, comes after evaluating the major logistical challenges encountered by the Super Eagles during their away match.
In the first match, Nigeria secured a close 1-0 win at home in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. However, for the return leg, the team faced significant challenges including a redirected flight and over 18 hours of delays accompanied by various logistical setbacks.
These disruptions affected Nigeria’s preparation and were brought to CAF’s attention for review.
At CAF’s 46th Ordinary General Assembly in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, President Patrice Motsepe addressed the issue and pledged to take strict measures against similar incidents throughout Africa.
READ ALSO: CAF to Decide on Libya vs Nigeria Cancelled AFCON 2025 Qualifier on Wednesday
While he avoided delving into specifics, Motsepe stressed that CAF would no longer tolerate such incidents, underscoring a commitment to fair treatment and elevated standards in African football.
However, he assured that “the process has been thoroughly investigated and the necessary actions will be implemented.”
He mentioned, “Regarding the issue with the Nigerian national team in Libya, I will refrain from commenting since there is an ongoing formal investigation.”
However, I want to stress a principle that we will no longer tolerate, as this issue has persisted for quite some time.
Let me stress that when it comes to your national team, we should set aside concerns about the Nigeria and Libya situation. This matter has been thoroughly investigated, and appropriate actions will be taken.
The South African pointed out repeated occurrences in African football where visiting teams occasionally face poor treatment.
“There have been countless accounts of national teams or football clubs traveling to a country and spending hours at the airport being questioned about non-existent documents,” said Motsepe.
The CAF President highlighted the need to treat visiting teams with respect and dignity, underscoring the principle of fairness in competition.
