Libya Appeals CAF’s Ruling Awarding Nigeria Three Points After Disrupted AFCON Qualifier

The Libyan Football Federation has officially appealed the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) recent decision to award Nigeria three points and three goals following the disrupted Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier, originally scheduled for October 15 in Benina, Libya. In addition to awarding Nigeria the points, CAF also imposed a $50,000 fine on Libya, citing mishandling of arrangements for Nigeria’s team and conditions that breached CAF regulations.

The controversy stems from Nigeria’s complaint to CAF regarding its team’s difficult journey to the qualifier. Reportedly, the Nigerian contingent experienced a 20-hour ordeal, including a diverted flight and an extended wait at Labraq Airport, which is located about 300 kilometers from their intended destination in Benghazi. They also reportedly faced inadequate facilities, including a lack of food and water. Due to these conditions, the Nigerian team was eventually forced to abandon the match and return home, leading to the disciplinary action.

In response, CAF’s disciplinary committee, led by Chairman Ousmane Kane, ruled in favor of Nigeria. The committee’s decision cited Libya’s violations of Article 31 of the Africa Cup of Nations Regulations, along with Articles 82 and 151 of the CAF Disciplinary Code. As a result, the match was awarded to Nigeria by forfeit, with a 3-0 scoreline. This decision has significantly improved Nigeria’s position in the qualifiers, bringing them within reach of the 2025 AFCON finals in Morocco, while the ruling has effectively eliminated Libya from contention, leaving them with just one point in Group D.

Libya’s appeal has gained attention as the Libyan Federation has enlisted Tunisian lawyer Ali Abbas to argue their case. The appeal challenges the fairness of CAF’s decision, arguing that the penalty and forfeiture are excessive and that Libya should not bear full responsibility for the logistical challenges faced by the Nigerian team. Libyan media outlet alwasat.ly reports that the Libyan Federation considers the CAF ruling as “unfair” and is hopeful that the appeal will result in a reconsideration of the original decision.

The outcome of the appeal remains pending, but it could have significant implications for Group D’s standings. Should Libya succeed in overturning or modifying the ruling, it may impact Nigeria’s points tally and, consequently, their chances of securing a spot in the 2025 AFCON finals.

The case underscores the importance of CAF regulations and logistical standards in international tournaments, highlighting the potential consequences when teams encounter significant travel and accommodation difficulties. As the appeal process unfolds, both Libya and Nigeria, along with fans across the continent, await CAF’s final decision on the matter.