The Libyan Football Federation is fighting back against the Confederation of African Football’s, CAF, recent decision to award Nigeria three points and three goals in their disrupted Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
Cyber Reporters reports that Libya was slapped with a $50,000 fine for breaching CAF regulations regarding the Nigerian team’s arrival and conditions.
The controversy began when Nigeria’s Super Eagles endured a traumatic experience upon arrival in Libya.
Their flight was diverted to Al Abraq International Airport, three hours from the match venue, and they were held for 17 hours under distressing conditions before eventually returning home.
Read Also: CAF Awards 3 Goals to Super Eagles, Imposes Libya $50,000 Fine
CAF’s disciplinary committee ruled in favor 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.
Libya has enlisted Tunisian lawyer Ali Abbas to defend its appeal, which challenges the CAF decision as “unfair”.
The appeal could have significant implications for the AFCON qualification campaign.
If the ruling stands, Nigeria will be within reach of qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations finals in Morocco, while Libya will be left out of contention with only one point in Group D.
