The Disciplinary Committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) sanctioned Libya and awarded Nigeria three points in the AFCON 2025 qualifying rounds after the October 15 match was suspended due to an incident at a Libyan airport.

Nigerian players refused to compete, citing “inhumane treatment” after being stranded at a Libyan airport for over twelve hours without food or water, according to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

Following an investigation, CAF announced on Saturday that the Libyan Football League (LLF) will be fined $50,000, payable within 60 days, and awarded Nigeria’s ‘Super Eagles’ a victory in the qualification standings.

“Our approved landing in Benghazi was canceled by the Libyan government without explanation. They closed the airport doors, leaving us without phone access, food, or water,” said team captain William Troost-Ekong, describing an incident that sparked major reactions within African sports circles.

The Nigerian team’s plane was redirected to Al Abraq, about 230 kilometers from Benghazi, leading them to return home without playing the AFCON 2025 qualifier.

The Libyan Football League commented, “While we regret any inconvenience caused, it is essential to recognize that such issues may arise due to routine air traffic control protocols, security checks, or logistical challenges, which are not uncommon in international travel.”