CAF apologises to Nigeria over ‘unfit’ pitch after Guinea-Bissau defeat

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has apologised to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) over the poor playing surface used during the Super Eagles’ 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau, according to OwnGoal Nigeria. CAF has also banned the Estádio Nacional 24 de Setembro from hosting further 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches.

The report claims Guinea-Bissau had initially been instructed to stage their home fixtures in Morocco because of the pitch, but CAF approved the stadium after repairs. However, the surface reportedly deteriorated before Nigeria’s visit, with players and officials raising injury concerns. CAF reportedly told the NFF that the pitch was not in the condition it had been when approved.