)
Nigeria's Super Eagles have been named winners of the AFCONQ2025 clash against Libya after the 20-hour hostage situation.
Nigeria's Super Eagles have been declared winners of their AFCON 2025 qualifying match against Libya, following a tumultuous 20-hour hostage situation at Al-Abraq Airport.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced the decision on October 23, 2024, after the Libya Football Federation was found to have breached multiple regulations regarding the treatment of the Nigerian team.
)
10:29 - 26.10.2024
Super Eagles star Wilfred Ndidi leads support for Flying Eagles with N5m gift ahead of crucial AFCON qualifier
Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, Deputy Senate President and others have rewarded the Flying Eagles for their brilliant outing at the AFCON qualifiers.
PAY ATTENTION: Join the BETTING PROF Telegram channel now
The match, originally scheduled for October 15 in Benghazi, was marred by significant logistical issues. The Nigerian squad's flight was diverted without warning, forcing them to land at an airport far from their intended destination.
Upon arrival, they were held for nearly a full day without adequate food or water, leading to widespread outrage and condemnation from Nigerian officials and fans alike.
)
In its ruling, CAF's Disciplinary Board declared the match a forfeit for Libya with a scoreline of 3-0 in favour of Nigeria.
The Libya Football Federation is found to have breached Article 31 of the African Cup of Nations Regulations as well as Articles 82 and 151 of the CAF Disciplinary Code.
Additionally, Libya has been fined $50,000, which must be paid within 60 days. The decision shows the seriousness of the violations committed by Libyan authorities and aims to set a precedent for future conduct in international matches.
)
CAF's Disciplinary Board, composed of members from various African nations, emphasised that such treatment of visiting teams is unacceptable and must be addressed decisively.
The ruling comes after extensive discussions and investigations into the incident, which included testimonies from both Nigerian and Libyan officials.
)
Super Eagles coach Augustine Eguavoen had expressed gratitude for the team's safe return home and highlighted the psychological toll the ordeal took on the players.
The incident sparked calls for greater accountability within African football governance and also raised concerns about the safety and treatment of teams travelling abroad.
)
As Nigeria celebrates its three points from this match, it also hopes that CAF's decisive action will prevent similar situations in the future.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)