Benin Republic’s national football team faced violent assaults from fans and police after their match against Libya in Tripoli, where they secured qualification for the 2025 AFCON. Coach Gernot Rohr described shocking incidents of stone-throwing and police brutality that forced the team to escape to the airport for safety, marking a concerning trend in the treatment of visiting teams in Libya.
Gernot Rohr, the head coach of the Benin Republic national football team, has reported a troubling incident involving his players and officials during a recent qualifier for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) against Libya. Following a goalless draw in Tripoli, which allowed Benin to secure a place in the AFCON alongside Nigeria, the team was violently confronted by agitated Libyan fans. Rohr recounted that as the team sought refuge in their designated area after the match, they faced hostility, including stones being thrown at them. Rather than providing security, local police reportedly exacerbated the situation by beating members of the Benin contingent with batons inside their bus, compelling them to flee to the airport in haste. This event is indicative of a troubling trend, as Libya has faced prior accusations of unsportsmanlike conduct towards visiting teams.
The match between Benin and Libya was a pivotal one in the final round of qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Tensions ran high due to the stakes involved—Benin and Libya were vying for a place in the tournament behind Nigeria, who had already qualified. Unsettling events off the pitch during this game unveiled serious concerns regarding the treatment of visiting teams in Libya, where previous accusations of foul play have emerged, including incidents that resulted in fines from the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
In summary, the violent incidents experienced by the Benin Republic team after their match against Libya highlight alarming issues regarding fan behavior and police conduct in sports. The assault on players and officials not only raises questions about safety for visiting teams in Libya but also calls for stronger measures to ensure fair play and respect in international football. Such occurrences must be addressed to preserve the integrity and spirit of the sport.
Original Source: gazettengr.com
