The ball passed through the legs of the goalkeeper
The 2026 World Cup qualifier between Libya and Cape Verde in Tripoli on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, has exploded into controversy after a bizarre late goal helped the Blue Sharks salvage a 3–3 draw — a result that has triggered widespread accusations of match-fixing.
With fourteen minutes left on the clock and Cape Verde trailing 3–1, defender Sidny Cabral hit what looked like a routine, almost lazy shot from around the centre circle.
The ball rolled slowly toward Libyan goalkeeper Murad Al Wuheeshi, who positioned himself to make the simplest of catches.
But in a moment that stunned everyone inside the Tripoli International Stadium, the ball somehow slipped straight through his legs and trickled into the net.
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The stadium fell silent as Cape Verde went on to get the much-needed equalizer. Within minutes, the clip went viral online, sparking outrage among fans who accused the Libyan side of “gifting” the visitors a crucial point.
Libya had earlier raced into a 3–1 lead through goals from Ezoo El Mariamy and Eltaib Muftah Al Shalwi, before a late collapse handed Cape Verde the result they needed to keep their World Cup dream alive.
Calls have since mounted for CAF and FIFA to investigate. What should have been a routine qualifier has become one of the most talked-about and suspicious games in recent African football history.
Watch the video below:
FKA/AM
Meanwhile, watch highlights of Ghana’s 5-0 win over Central African Republic in World Cup qualifiers
