The Libyan Football Federation has filed an appeal against the recent decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to award Nigeria three points and three goals following a disrupted Africa Cup of Nations qualifier initially scheduled for 15 October in Bengazi, Libya.
The verdict also imposed a $50,000 fine on Libya, citing breaches of CAF regulations in handling the Nigerian team’s arrival and conditions.
According to reports from Libyan outlet alwasat.ly, Libya has enlisted Tunisian lawyer, Ali Abbas to defend its appeal, which described the verdict as “unfair”.
Complaint by the Nigeria Football Federation led to an investigation by CAF’s disciplinary committee after the Super Eagles endured several hours of ordeal involving a diverted flight, a lengthy wait at Al-Abraq Airport — 300 kilometers from the intended destination in Benghazi — and inadequate facilities, including a lack of food and water. Nigeria’s contingent was eventually forced to abandon the match and return home.
CAF’s disciplinary committee, chaired by Ousmane Kane, ruled in favour of Nigeria, citing violations of Article 31 of the Africa Cup of Nations Regulations and Articles 82 and 151 of the CAF Disciplinary Code. Libya was deemed to have lost the match by forfeit with a 3-0 score awarded to Nigeria.
The ruling, if upheld, places Nigeria, which will have 10 points, within reach of qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations finals in Morocco, while leaving Libya out of contention with only one point in Group D.
