Update: Libya Hires Top Lawyer To Overturn CAF’s $50K Fine And 3-0 Win Awarded To Nigeria

The Libyan Football Federation has officially appealed the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) recent decision to award Nigeria three points and three goals in a disrupted Africa Cup of Nations qualifier initially set for October 15 in Benina, Libya.

This ruling also imposed a $50,000 fine on Libya for failing to meet CAF standards regarding the Nigerian team’s arrival and accommodations.

Libyan news outlet alwasat.ly reports that the Libyan Federation has hired Tunisian lawyer Ali Abbas to challenge the CAF verdict, labeling it “unfair.”

The ruling followed a complaint by the Nigerian Football Federation, which triggered a CAF investigation after the Super Eagles faced a 20-hour ordeal involving a diverted flight, prolonged wait at Labraq Airport—300 kilometers from Benghazi—and poor amenities, including a lack of food and water. Ultimately, Nigeria’s team was forced to abandon the match and return home.

CAF’s disciplinary committee, chaired by Ousmane Kane, found Libya in breach of Article 31 of the Africa Cup of Nations Regulations and Articles 82 and 151 of the CAF Disciplinary Code, resulting in a forfeit loss with a 3-0 score awarded to Nigeria.

If upheld, this decision significantly advances Nigeria’s qualification hopes for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations finals in Morocco, while Libya remains at the bottom of Group D with one point.