Gernot Rohr, the coach of the Benin national football team, reported that players and officials were assaulted by fans and police after a decisive match against Libya in Tripoli. The match ended in a 0-0 draw, allowing Benin to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The resulting anger from Libyan fans led to violent attacks on the Benin contingent, contributing to ongoing concerns regarding safety and respect for visiting teams in Libya.
In a startling revelation, Gernot Rohr, the head coach of the Benin national football team, disclosed that his players and officials faced physical assaults by both fans and police during their recent Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Libya in Tripoli. Following a tense and decisive 0-0 draw, the Benin Republic secured a spot at the 2025 tournament, inciting anger among Libyan supporters who resorted to violent measures, including throwing stones and bottles at the Benin contingent. Rohr recounted the harrowing experience, stating that after the match, the team’s bus was interrupted by police, who further exacerbated the situation by using batons against the players and staff, including the Tunisian assistant coach. This troubling incident highlights ongoing safety issues for visiting teams in Libya, where prior allegations of unsportsmanlike conduct have occurred.
The Benin Republic faced Libya in a crucial match that determined qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. In this particular match, the Benin Republic drew 0-0 with Libya, which allowed them to claim the second qualifying spot from Group D. However, the match’s outcome led to violent reactions from Libyan fans, further complicated by reports of police brutality towards the visiting team. This incident is consistent with a pattern of hostile treatment of teams visiting Libya, raising concerns over player safety and the integrity of football in the region.
The incidents involving the Benin national football team in Libya demonstrate significant concerns regarding security and fair play during international competitions. Following a match that granted them qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations, the team endured assaults from fans and excessive force from police. This pattern of behavior not only jeopardizes the safety of players and officials but also tarnishes Libya’s reputation in international sports.
Original Source: gazettengr.com
