In a recent match in Libya, the Benin national team faced violence from fans and police following a draw that allowed them to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Coach Gernot Rohr reported stones and bottles being thrown at players, amid brutal treatment from Libyan police. This incident highlights ongoing issues of unsportsmanlike conduct faced by visiting teams in Libya.
Gernot Rohr, the head coach of the Benin national football team, reported alarming incidents of violence endured by his players and officials during a recent match against Libya in Tripoli. Following a draw that secured Benin a place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Benin’s contingent was subjected to aggression from both fans and police. Reportedly, hostile fans hurled stones at the team, and the police escalated the situation by brutally attacking individuals on the team bus. This incident highlights the ongoing problematic treatment of visiting teams in Libya following recurrent accusations of unsportsmanlike conduct in the nation’s football history. Despite these challenges, Benin advanced to the tournament, but the experience raises significant questions regarding the safety and fair play standards in international football.
The incident involving the Benin national team in Libya shines a light on the broader context of sportsmanship within international football, particularly in regions where local tensions may influence behavior during matches. Libya has a troubling history of rough treatment towards visiting teams, underlined by events where teams have faced mistreatment by both fans and security forces. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has previously taken actions against Libya for their misconduct, suggesting that systemic issues exist that require urgent attention and reform. This context is critical not only for the safety of teams but also for the integrity of future sporting events.
Despite securing a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, the Benin Republic team faced a disturbing episode of violence during their qualifying match against Libya. The violent reaction from the Libyan fans, coupled with the police’s aggressive response, raises serious concerns about the treatment of visiting teams in Libya and the overarching issue of sportsmanship within football. Immediate reform and stringent measures are necessary to ensure the safety and dignity of players and officials in international matches.
Original Source: gazettengr.com
