The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has initiated an investigation into the cancellation of an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier between Libya and Nigeria. CAF President Patrice Motsepe has stated that appropriate measures will be taken if the Libyan Football Federation is found guilty of mistreating the Nigerian team. He emphasized that CAF will not tolerate any form of misconduct towards visiting teams, highlighting the organization’s commitment to addressing long-standing issues of mistreatment during international events.Motsepe remarked, “We are proud of those nations that treat visiting teams with the respect and dignity they deserve. But if rules are violated, we will act.”
- Motsepe confirmed that a thorough investigation into the Nigeria-Libya incident is underway, assuring that “appropriate action will be taken.”
- He highlighted recurring issues of unfair treatment faced by teams, such as delays at airports and questionable COVID-19 tests targeting key players.
- Motsepe shared concerns about teams spending hours at the airport and being asked for non-existent documents.
- He noted that during COVID-19, some teams faced unjust claims about their players’ health, with officials asserting that top players tested positive despite negative tests.
- He emphasized the importance of sportsmanship, stating, “We are proud of those nations that treat visiting national teams and visiting football clubs with the respect and dignity that they deserve.”
- Motsepe called for a review of existing regulations to ensure fairness and promote sportsmanship across African football.
- He reiterated CAF’s commitment to fairness, urging host nations to treat visiting teams as they would wish to be treated.
“I just want to repeat, we’re reviewing those laws, and we want to emphasize sportsmanship. When a national team from another country visits or a football club visits, treat them with the dignity and respect that they deserve. And if there are violations of those regulations and those rules, we will take action,” he stated. Motsepe’s commitment to fostering a culture of respect and fairness in African football highlights the need for better treatment of visiting teams, ensuring that all parties adhere to the established regulations. This proactive stance aims to enhance the integrity of the sport across the continent.
