In a new turn of events, the Libyan Football Federation (LFF) is voicing strong objections to the recent sanctions imposed by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The sanctions involve a $50,000 fine and the forfeiture of three points and three goals to Nigeria, following the October 15th AFCON qualifier, which was removed from the 2025 AFCON qualifying schedule.
Libyan Football Federation President Nasser Al-Suwai’i criticized the verdict, describing it as “unjust and malicious.” He argued that the Nigeria Football Federation’s influence within CAF might have affected the ruling, according to the Libyan Observer.
CAF’s decision was based on Libya’s violation of multiple regulations. The federation was accused of breaching Article 31 of the 2019 African Cup of Nations rules, as well as Articles 82 and 151 of the CAF Disciplinary Code. This stemmed from an incident where the Super Eagles’ flight to Benghazi was diverted to Al-Abraq International Airport. Here, Nigerian players and officials were reportedly held for 18 hours without basic amenities like food and water.
Libya has been given 60 days to pay the fine. However, Al-Suwai’i confirmed that the LFF plans to file an appeal against the decision, with the possibility of escalating the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) if necessary, to secure what they consider their “legitimate rights.”
In a separate report by the Libyan News Agency, the LFF is celebrating a partial victory, as CAF has lifted its ban on Libya hosting home matches on neutral ground. This change came after intervention from Abdel Hadi Al-Huwaij, Libya’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, allowing the national team to play its upcoming matches at home.
For Nigeria, the ruling provides a significant boost in the AFCON qualifiers. The Super Eagles now sit comfortably at the top of Group D with 10 points, edging closer to a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations finals in Morocco. With two rounds left, Nigeria holds a strong lead, while Libya remains at the bottom of the group with only one point, effectively ending their chances of qualifying.
