AFCON 2027 (Q): Libya – Botswana, a behind-closed-doors match

24.09.26 12:00 AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations

Libya

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Botswana

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Libya will begin its AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign in an empty stadium. The Mediterranean Knights face Botswana in Tripoli this Thursday, but no supporters will be able to attend the match because of a sanction imposed by CAF.

A match without supporters

Tripoli International Stadium will be closed to supporters for this match. The Libyan Football Federation is serving a sanction linked to incidents that occurred during a AFCON 2025 qualifying match against Benin. Despite the behind-closed-doors conditions, coach Youssouf Dabo says his team is ready to begin its campaign.

The objective is to start the qualifiers with a victory and dedicate the three points to the Libyan supporters.

Youssouf Dabo also highlighted his players’ discipline and commitment during preparations. His objective is now to start the qualifiers with a victory and dedicate the three points to the Libyan supporters.

Libya want to make a good start

Defender Ali Youssef also spoke to the media ahead of the match. He confirmed that he is fully fit and available to face Botswana. The player expressed his confidence in the squad and highlighted the national team’s determination to put in a good performance despite the absence of the crowd.

Libya and Botswana will meet this Thursday at Tripoli International Stadium for the first matchday of the AFCON 2027 qualifiers, in a stadium exceptionally deprived of its supporters.

Aliou Toundé |

Editorfr

Related teams and leagues

Libya

Botswana

AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations