CAF imposes further sanctions on Libya amid AFCON qualifier issues, impacting the nation’s path in the tournament.”
A few days after Libya appealed to overturn the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) controversial decision concerning their interrupted 2025 AFCON qualifier against Nigeria, the situation for the North African country has worsened.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has implemented new sanctions on the Libya Football Federation (LFF), increasing the already significant pressure on Libyan football.
The most recent sanctions consist of a $20,000 fine and an order for the next two matches to be held without spectators.
These sanctions exacerbate an already unstable situation in Libya, which has been grappling with the aftermath of the recent debacle.
The problems started when Libya’s management of Nigeria’s national team during their trip to Benghazi for the October 15 AFCON qualifier resulted in major complications.
The Nigerian team’s flight was diverted to Al-Abraq Airport, where they were stranded for more than 18 hours. This situation led them to boycott the return leg match and head back home, prompting CAF to rule in Nigeria’s favor by awarding them three points and three goals.
CAF determined that Libya had breached multiple regulations related to the Nigerian team’s arrival, resulting in a forfeiture of the match and an initial fine of $50,000. In reaction to this ruling favoring Nigeria, Libya promptly lodged an appeal with hopes of overturning the decision.
As they contest CAF’s decision, the LFF has incurred further penalties. In a different situation, another Libyan team was fined $20,000 and must hold their next two matches without spectators as punishment for violent incidents during a recent game.
The newest sanctions exacerbate the existing challenges facing Libyan football, underscoring the growing tensions between Libya and CAF.
With the appeal still pending and new sanctions being enforced, the future of Libyan football remains uncertain. As events unfold, attention will focus on CAF’s decisions and Libya’s subsequent actions in this contentious saga.
Peoplesmind
