CAF AWARDS NIGERIA THREE POINTS AND THREE GOALS FOR ABANDONED LIBYA MATCH
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has handed down a decisive verdict in favor of Nigeria, awarding them three points and three goals for the abandoned match against Libya. This ruling comes after an investigation into the chaotic October 15 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Benghazi, where Nigeria’s Super Eagles were left stranded at an abandoned airport for nearly a day due to poor treatment by the host country.
CAF’s Disciplinary Board found the Libya Football Federation guilty of breaching Article 31 of the African Cup of Nations Regulations and Articles 82 and 151 of the CAF Disciplinary Code. As a result, Libya forfeits the match 3-0, and their football federation must pay a $50,000 fine within 60 days.
CAF’S 5-POINT DECISION:
1. LIBYA FOOTBALL FEDERATION BREACH: Found guilty of breaching Article 31 and Articles 82 and 151.
2. MATCH FORFEITURE: Libya loses match No.87 against Nigeria 3-0.
3. FINE: Libya Football Federation must pay $50,000 within 60 days.
4. RELIEF MOTIONS DISMISSED: All other motions or prayers for relief are dismissed.
5. NIGERIA’S STANDING: Nigeria now tops Group D with 10 points from four games.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe emphasized that the organization will not tolerate unsportsmanlike conduct or unfair treatment in African football. This ruling reinforces that commitment and sends a strong message to member associations.
