Nigeria Gains Points Amidst Airport Tensions
The CAF Disciplinary Board awarded three points to Nigeria’s Super Eagles for their AFCON 2025 Qualifiers, securing their standing. This ruling follows disruptions caused by Libyan authorities at Benghazi airport, which resulted in match cancellation. Libyan officials’ actions ultimately prevented the Nigeria-Libya match from taking place as scheduled on October 15, 2024. Additionally, CAF imposed a $50,000 fine on Libya as a penalty for failing to follow required match guidelines.
CAF’s Swift Action and Penalties
The Disciplinary Board’s decision, led by Senegalese Chairperson Ousmane Kane, came down on October 26, 2024. The panel, comprised of representatives from Kenya, Chad, Lesotho, and South Africa, found Libya in violation of CAF’s regulations. These breaches stemmed from logistical complications at Benghazi airport, severely impacting Nigeria’s national team’s preparation and travel, forcing CAF to intervene.
Libya’s Penalty for Breach of CAF Regulations
CAF’s ruling outlined Libya’s responsibility in the debacle, pointing to a lack of cooperation and breach of essential hosting duties. The $50,000 fine serves as a stern reminder to other hosting nations about the importance of upholding CAF’s standards. Libya has been given 60 days to settle this fine or face further sanctions, adding pressure on the Libyan Football Federation to respond promptly.
Libya’s Reaction to the CAF Decision
The Libyan Football Federation criticised Nigeria’s initial refusal to proceed, attributing the disruption to Nigeria’s alleged non-cooperative actions. LFF claimed Nigeria’s behaviour disrupted both legs of the AFCON qualifiers, escalating tensions. In response, LFF expressed frustration, asserting Nigeria’s lack of cooperation undermined the scheduled matches’ smooth progression.. LFF previously indicated intentions to take legal action against CAF’s decision, arguing their compliance with necessary protocols.
Nigeria’s Path to AFCON Qualification Unaffected
For Nigeria, this decision secures a crucial win on their path to AFCON 2025, keeping their qualification hopes intact. The points awarded not only strengthen Nigeria’s standing in the qualifiers but also underscore CAF’s commitment to maintaining fair play and addressing any hindrances that disrupt scheduled matches.
Looking Ahead: CAF’s Message to African Nations
CAF’s disciplinary measures highlight the organisation’s dedication to enforcing its regulations rigorously. This decision is likely to reinforce the importance of adequate logistics and hospitality for visiting teams, ensuring smoother transitions and cooperation among African nations as AFCON 2025 approaches.
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