Sports News of Wednesday, 20 November 2024

Source: www.mynigeria.com

Gernot Rohr shows scar after his Benin team were assaulted in Libya after securing AFCON qualification

Benin Republic head coach Gernot Rohr has shown evidence of physical assault on his team at the Tripoli International Stadium after securing qualification for the 2025 African Cup of Nations in Libya.

The Cheetahs secured a crucial point against the Mediterranean Knights on Monday, November 18, to finish second behind Nigeria in Group D.

The West African side held Libya to a goalless draw to qualify for next year's tournament ahead of the North Africans and Rwanda.

However, the qualification came at a price both on and off the pitch, as reports indicate that the Benin players and staff were assaulted in the locker room and on the team bus by some irate Libyan fans.

Rohr, a former Super Eagles coach, stated that he was physically assaulted by a Libyan police officer on the team bus.

In an interview with Canal+, the 71-year-old detailed what unfolded after the game in Tripoli upon their arrival in Cotonou.



Libya was recently fined USD 50,000 by CAF after leaving Nigeria stranded at the airport for several hours, leading to the cancellation of the Matchday four AFCON fixture between them and Nigeria.

Nigeria was awarded the maximum three points plus three goals following CAF's ruling on the matter.