Breaking: FIFA Sanctions Nigeria After Anger Fans Smash Up Stadium

FIFA has fined Nigeria 150,000 Swiss Francs for fans’ rowdy behaviour at the end of the second leg of the Qatar 2022 World Cup play-off between the Super Eagles and the Black Stars of Ghana on March 29 at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja.

The fine is estimated to be around $154,128.75.

The Black Stars knocked Nigeria out of the Qatar 2022 competition on the away goals rule, resulting in an alleged collapse of law and order.

The match concluded in a 1-1 draw, however, the first leg in Ghana had finished in a scoreless draw.

After the game, footage from the stadium showed enraged fans storming the field and causing damage to the facilities.

According to FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee, Nigeria’s stadium lacked order and security.

FIFA, in a disciplinary overview document, stated that Nigeria failed “to implement existing safety rules” and failed “to ensure that law and order are maintained in the stadium.”

FIFA also said that Nigeria will also play its next home game without fans, in addition to the 150,000 CHF fine.

During the World Cup qualifying, several other countries were penalized for various offences.

The choices were made based on the facts of each case, according to the document, which also stated that some of the decisions might be appealed.

The Nigeria Football Federation has not yet responded to the events.