Libya Forfeits Against Nigeria: Rwanda’s Qualification Hopes Receive a Boost

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has declared Libya losers by forfeit in their recent 2025 AFCON qualifier against Nigeria, after Libya was found guilty of mistreating the Super Eagles at Al Abraq Airport. The decision awarded Nigeria three points and three goals, solidifying their position at the top of the group with 10 points and leaving them just two points shy of automatic qualification.

With Nigeria in the clear, focus now shifts to the remaining qualification slot, which remains wide open between Benin (6 points), Rwanda (5 points), and Libya (1 point). Although Libya still has a mathematical chance to qualify, they would need to win both remaining games while hoping for losses from both Benin and Rwanda—a highly unlikely scenario.

For Rwanda’s Amavubi team, the path to qualification is clearer. A victory over Libya in Kigali, combined with a Nigeria win over Benin, would allow Rwanda to surpass Benin with 8 points. This result would put them in a strong position ahead of the final fixture on November 18, where they face Nigeria. Even a defeat in that final match might not derail Rwanda’s hopes, provided Benin also stumbles in their away game against Libya.

However, Amavubi must focus on beating Libya in their next match and relying on Nigeria to handle Benin, enhancing Rwanda’s historic chances of returning to the AFCON tournament for the first time in 20 years.

Written by Emmanuel Atanga

I am an ardent sports fan who is so passionate about the world of sports. I love to share my passion for sports with fellow minded people like you. Please join me on this sports journey as i delve into all the action that gives us so much joy.

Published on October 28, 2024