After crowd disturbance and vandalism marred the end of Nigeria’s Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup play-off against Ghana, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) could face sanctions from world governing body FIFA.
The ugly scenes began after the Super Eagles were eliminated from qualifying on the away goals rule following a 1-1 draw in Abuja on Tuesday, as the home fans erupted in rage.
As the Ghanaian players and coaching crew departed the Moshood Abiola Nation Stadium, they were assaulted with water bottles, forcing them to make a swift exit down the tunnel before the Nigerian fans invaded the pitch.
The pitch invasion and vandalism required the use of tear gas canisters and police batons but the unruly fans had already overturned and damaged two dugouts and the advertisement boards at the newly refurbished Stadium in Abuja.
World football governing body FIFA is reviewing the official match reports before deciding whether or not to take action against the NFF.
A FIFA statement said: “The relevant information included in the match reports will be evaluated by the competent disciplinary bodies before deciding on the next steps to be taken.”
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
