CAF rules on Libya protest, awards Nigeria victory after hostage ordeal

By Samuel Ahmadu

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) Disciplinary Board has announced its ruling on a recent protest concerning botched Match No. 87 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifiers between Libya and Nigeria.

Following a review at its October 23, 2024, meeting, the board has declared the match forfeited by Libya, resulting in a 3-0 victory awarded to Nigeria.

This decision comes after Nigeria’s team endured a difficult experience in Libya, where players and officials were stranded for over 20 hours before the match.

The Libya Football Federation was found in breach of Article 31 of the AFCON Regulations, alongside Articles 82 and 151 of the CAF Disciplinary Code.

As part of the ruling, the federation has been fined USD 50,000, payable within 60 days of notification.

The disciplinary panel, chaired by Mr. Ousmane Kane (Senegal) and Vice-Chair Ms. Njeri Onyango (Kenya), emphasized CAF’s commitment to fair play and integrity within the competition.

With this ruling, Nigeria now extends its lead at the top of Group D to 10 points from four games, reinforcing its position as group leader.