Libya’s return to the international football stage was marked by a dramatic 1-1 draw against Rwanda in the opening round of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The match, played in Tripoli, marked the first time Libya had hosted an international match in their capital city since August 2013.
The home side took the lead in the first half through a goal from fullback Sobi Al Dawi. However, the celebrations were short-lived as Rwanda’s Innocent Nshuti equalized in the 51st minute. The 45,000-capacity stadium, which had been closed due to the civil unrest that followed the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, was only half full, and supporters expressed their disappointment with the result.
The match was a symbol of Libya’s gradual return to stability after years of conflict. The Tripoli stadium, which had been damaged and run down, underwent a two-year renovation process. The stadium’s former name, June 11 Stadium, has been dropped, as it commemorated the date the U.S. military left their base in Libya in 1970. The venue previously hosted the 1982 Africa Cup of Nations final, where Libya lost on penalties to Ghana.
Across the continent, other matches on the opening day of the qualifiers saw Sudan emerge as the sole winner. Abo Eisa, a winger who has played for several clubs in England’s Leagues One and Two, scored the only goal in Sudan’s 1-0 victory over Niger. The match was played in Juba, South Sudan, due to the ongoing civil war in Sudan.
The Comoros Islands, who are one of 18 African countries banned from hosting international matches until they upgrade their stadia, faced Gambia in El Jadida, Morocco. The Comoros took the lead through Youssouf Mchangama’s free kick in the 37th minute, but Gambia’s Musa Barrow equalized with a stunning set piece just before halftime.
Tanzania and Ethiopia played out a goalless draw in Group H’s opening match, which took place in Dar-es-Salaam. The qualifiers for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which will be held in Morocco, continue on Thursday with seven more matches. The matches include home ties for former African champions Algeria, Ghana, and Tunisia.
