CAF Fines Libya $50,000, Awards Nigeria 3-0 Victory Over Hostile Airport Incident
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has fined Libya $50,000 and awarded a 3-0 win to Nigeria following an incident involving the Nigerian national team at Labraq Airport ahead of an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier. The match, originally scheduled for October 15 at the Benina Martyrs Stadium, was canceled after Nigerian players and officials were reportedly held at the airport for 18 hours without food or water after their flight was unexpectedly redirected.
CAF’s Disciplinary Committee reviewed the case in a video conference on October 23, where representatives from both Libya and Nigeria presented their accounts. The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) had submitted a formal complaint, alleging that their team was subjected to inhumane conditions and denied basic necessities, which they argued endangered the well-being of players and staff.
After thorough investigation, CAF determined that Libya had breached regulations regarding the treatment of visiting teams, thereby compromising player safety and failing to meet minimum hospitality standards. In addition to the fine, CAF awarded Nigeria a 3-0 victory for the disrupted match, emphasizing that its decision reflects a zero-tolerance stance on violations of player welfare and host-country obligations.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe stated, “The well-being of all teams is paramount, and CAF will not condone any lapses in this regard. We hope this action sets a precedent for fair treatment and sportsmanship across the continent.”
This decision impacts Libya’s standings in Group A and serves as a warning to other host nations about upholding standards of professionalism and respect in AFCON competitions.