LAGOS, Nigeria – The Super Eagles of Nigeria remain firmly in control of Group D in the Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, qualifiers, despite the controversy surrounding their match against Libya.
With seven points from three games, Nigeria holds the top spot, even as the Confederation of African Football, CAF, launches an investigation into the botched encounter.
Libya-Nigeria Match Controversy
Nigeria was scheduled to face Libya’s Mediterranean Knights in matchday 4 of the qualifiers, but the game was unexpectedly called off.
The Super Eagles boycotted the match after being stranded at the wrong airport for over 12 hours due to logistical errors by Libyan authorities.
The Nigerian team eventually returned home, prompting CAF to probe the situation.
The delay and ill-treatment sparked outrage, with Nigeria’s football authorities demanding answers.
CAF is investigating the incident, with potential repercussions for Libya if found culpable.
Despite the disruption, Nigeria remains in pole position in Group D, with their qualification campaign on track.
Rwanda’s Crucial Victory Over Benin
Meanwhile, in the other Group D fixture, Rwanda secured a vital 2-1 victory over Benin at the Stade Amahoro on Tuesday, October 15, 2024.
Rwanda, needing a win to stay in contention for AFCON qualification, dominated the match but found themselves trailing when Benin’s Andreas Hountondji capitalized on a defensive mistake late in the first half.
The hosts rallied in the second half, with Innocent Nshuti leveling the score in the 70th minute.
Just five minutes later, Djihad Bizimana converted a penalty to complete the comeback and secure all three points for Rwanda.
Group D Standings
The win gives Rwanda a glimmer of hope for AFCON qualification. They now sit third in Group D with five points from four matches.
Benin, coached by former Super Eagles boss Gernot Rohr, remains second with six points from four games.
Despite the Libya controversy, Nigeria’s Super Eagles hold the top spot with seven points from three games.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the 24-team finals in Morocco next year, and Nigeria remains on course for qualification.
CAF Investigation and Next Steps
CAF’s investigation into the botched Nigeria-Libya match will determine whether the Super Eagles will be awarded the points or if the game will be rescheduled.
As the qualifying rounds intensify, Nigeria will look to resolve the controversy and maintain their momentum toward securing a place in the 2024 AFCON tournament.
With just a few matches left in the group stage, all eyes are on Nigeria’s next moves as they navigate both on-field competition and off-field challenges.
