AFCON Qualifiers 2024: CAF Awards Nigeria Victory, Fines Libya $50,000

CAF Awards Nigeria Three Points and Fines Libya $50,000 for the Abandoned AFCON Qualifiers 2024

iexclusivenews – The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has awarded three points and three goals to Nigeria for the abandoned Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifiers 2024 match against Libya.

The decision follows an investigation by the CAF Disciplinary Board into the events that transpired during the match in Benghazi on October 15, 2024.

Background of the Incident

This online news media reports that the Nigerian Super Eagles walked away from the match due to the poor treatment they received from the host country at Libya’s airport.

The team and staff were left stranded at an abandoned airport for almost a day, which led to their decision to abandon the match. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation and calls for better treatment of visiting teams.

CAF’s Ruling and Penalties

Following an investigation, CAF found the Libya Football Federation to have breached several regulations, including Article 31 of the African Cup of Nations Regulations and Articles 82 and 151 of the CAF Disciplinary Code.

As a result, CAF has declared the match lost by forfeit by Libya with a score of 3-0 in favor of Nigeria. Additionally, the Libya Football Federation has been ordered to pay a fine of $50,000 within 60 days of the decision notification.

CAF’s 5-Point Decision

The Libya Football Federation is found to have breached Article 31 of the African Cup of Nations Regulations and Articles 82 and 151 of the CAF Disciplinary Code.

The match No.87 Libya v. Nigeria of the AFCON Qualifiers 2024 (scheduled for October 15, 2024, in Benghazi) is declared lost by forfeit by Libya with a score of 3-0.

The Libya Football Federation is ordered to pay a fine of $50,000.

The fine is to be paid within 60 days of notification of the present decision.

All other and further motions or prayers for relief are dismissed.

CAF President Patrice Motsepe had previously stated that the continental body would not tolerate any lack of sportsmanship and unfair treatment in African football.

This decision reinforces CAF’s commitment to ensuring fair play and proper conduct among its member nations.

With this decision, Nigeria now has ten points from four games, maintaining their position at the top of Group D.

The victory awarded to Nigeria not only boosts their chances of qualifying for the AFCON 2024 but also serves as a reminder of the importance of fair treatment and hospitality in international sports.

For Libya, the fine and forfeiture of the match serve as a stern warning against such misconduct. The decision highlights the need for better management and organization to ensure that visiting teams are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.

Reactions from the Football Community

The decision by CAF has elicited various reactions from the football community. While Nigerian fans and officials have welcomed the ruling, emphasizing the importance of fair treatment, Libyan officials have expressed their disappointment and vowed to improve their hosting arrangements in the future.

Super Eagles coach, Jose Peseiro, praised CAF’s decision, stating, “This ruling is a step in the right direction. It sends a clear message that such treatment will not be tolerated in international football. We are focused on our goal of qualifying for AFCON 2024 and are grateful for the support we have received.”

Looking Ahead

As Nigeria continues its journey towards AFCON 2024, the team is more determined than ever to perform well in the remaining qualifiers. The support from CAF and the football community has bolstered their resolve to succeed on the continental stage.

The incident also serves as a lesson for all participating nations to uphold the principles of fair play and sportsmanship. Ensuring that visiting teams are treated with respect is crucial for the integrity and success of international tournaments.

CAF’s decision to award Nigeria victory and fine Libya underscores the importance of fair treatment in international sports. As the Super Eagles continue their quest for AFCON 2024 qualification, the ruling serves as a reminder of the values that should guide all footballing nations.

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