The Libyan Football Federation Has Downplayed a Recent Decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF)
Naijawebinfo reports that a significant development has arisen in the botched Africa Cup of Nations qualifier between Libya and Nigeria. CAF has imposed a $50,000 fine on Libya, citing violations of CAF regulations during the Nigerian team’s arrival and conditions.
According to reports, the Libyan Football Federation has challenged the CAF decision, claiming it is unfair. They have enlisted the services of Tunisian lawyer Ali Abbas to defend their appeal against the imposed penalty.
This development comes after a thorough investigation by the CAF disciplinary committee into a complaint made by the Nigeria Football Federation. The Nigerian team was subjected to a nightmarish experience in Libya, which led them to file a complaint following the match.
The team was initially scheduled to land in Benghazi, but they were diverted to Labraq Airport, which is 300 kilometers away. They were subsequently locked in without food, water, and proper facilities, leaving them in a state of exhaustion.
The Nigerian team’s condition was further exacerbated by the fact that they were not in the right physical and mental state to play the match. They were eventually forced to return to their country on Monday.
The Libyan Football Federation initially defended their actions, but their defense was ultimately found to be unacceptable.
A ruling was issued by the disciplinary committee, which found the Libyan Football Federation guilty of violating various CAF regulations. As a result, the match was declared lost by forfeit, with a score of 3-0 in favor of Nigeria.
The Libyan Football Federation was also ordered to pay a fine of USD 50,000 within 60 days. This verdict has significant implications for Nigeria’s qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations finals in Morocco.
If Nigeria wins or draws their next match against Benin Republic, they will secure a spot in the finals, putting them on the brink of qualification.
