Nasser Al-Suwai’i, President of the Libyan Football Federation, has strongly opposed the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) decision to impose a $50,000 fine on Libya. As a result, Libya has forfeited three points and three goals to Nigeria. This forfeiture occurred over the delisted 2025 AFCON qualifying Group D match originally scheduled for October 15 in Benina.
In a report from the Libyan outlet Libyan Observer, Al-Suwai’i described the ruling as “unjust and malicious,” suggesting that the influence of the Nigeria Football Federation within CAF may have significantly affected the outcome.
The Libyan Football Federation has 60 days to address the fine after being found in violation of Article 31 of the 2019 African Cup of Nations regulations, as well as Articles 82 and 151 of CAF’s Disciplinary Code. This violation stems from the diversion of Nigeria’s flight to Al-Abraq International Airport, where the Super Eagles players and crew experienced an uncomfortable 18-hour delay without food and water.
Al-Suwai’i confirmed that the LFF intends to file an official appeal soon, deeming the sanctions unacceptable. He stated that if their appeal is unsuccessful, the LFF is prepared to take the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to protect their rights.
Meanwhile, the Libyan News Agency reported that the Libya FA is celebrating the lifting of the ban on the national team playing their next home matches at neutral venues. This decision was influenced by the efforts of Abdel Hadi Al-Huwaij, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in the Libyan government.
As it stands, Nigeria is in a strong position for qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations finals in Morocco, leading the group with 10 points, while Benin Republic follows in second place with three points less. Unfortunately, Libya occupies the bottom of the group with just one point and has been eliminated from contention for the available tickets.