The Confederation of African Football has fined Libya $50,000 and mandated the team to play two matches without spectators. This penalty follows misconduct by fans and officials during a 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Benin in Benghazi.
This action comes shortly after Libya faced consequences for redirecting Nigeria’s Super Eagles to an unsafe airport during a previous AFCON qualifier. CAF’s disciplinary committee also ruled against Guinea’s request to disqualify Tanzania from the 2024 AFCON due to a player wearing an incorrect shirt number.
Libya’s recent controversies, including mistreatment of the Nigerian team, have raised concerns in African football circles. The Super Eagles were stranded for over 20 hours without proper facilities, leading to the match’s cancellation and Nigeria being awarded three points.
Allegations of Libyan authorities targeting Nigerian residents in response to the punishment have surfaced, despite Nigerian officials denying reports of widespread arrests. The President of the Nigerian community in Libya has highlighted harassment faced by Nigerians, emphasizing the indiscriminate nature of the arrests.
Previously, Libya’s football federation defended their actions against Nigeria, citing issues during their visit for the first leg of the qualifier. CAF’s recent decision underscores its commitment to addressing misconduct in African football, with additional rulings affecting Benin and Equatorial Guinea. Details of their sanctions were not immediately disclosed.