The Confederation of African Football, is set to deliver its final verdict on Wednesday, October 23, regarding the controversial cancellation of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier between Libya and Nigeria.
The clash descended into chaos as the Super Eagles endured harsh treatment upon their arrival in Libya.
The Nigerian contingent, fresh off a 1-0 win at home in Uyo, found themselves caught in logistical and diplomatic drama before the reverse fixture.
Nigeria’s journey to Benghazi took a troubling turn when their flight was diverted to Al Abraq Airport, a small facility far from their intended destination.
Upon arrival, the players and officials were detained for over 18 hours without access to food, water, or internet, prompting the team to boycott the match.
Stranded: Super Eagles players left in the Al Abraq Airport for 15 hours. The Players and team officials slept on seats. Photo | X
In response to Nigeria’s refusal to play, CAF demanded that the Libyan Football Federation (LFF) submit an official explanation.
The LFF complied on Monday, October 20, but also criticized Nigeria’s decision to abandon the match.
According to Libya Al-Ahrar Channel, CAF’s disciplinary committee will announce its ruling on Wednesday, following a detailed review of the situation.
The decision will cover both the Super Eagles’ ordeal and the impact on the competition standings.
CAF President Hints at Zero Tolerance for Misconduct
CAF President, Patrice Motsepe, speaking during the organization’s 46th Ordinary General Assembly in Addis Ababa, emphasized that the governing body will not tolerate such incidents.
“We should have zero tolerance. When there was this problem of the Nigerian national team in Libya, I will not comment on that because there is a proper investigation,” Motesepe said.
President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Patrice Motsepe. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images)
“But I want to emphasise a principle that we will not tolerate. This is something that has been going on for quite some time.
“Forget about the Libya vs Nigeria situation; forget about that; appropriate action will be taken. I have heard too many stories about a football club or national team that goes to a country.”
Despite the incident, the Super Eagles currently top their qualifying group with 7 points, while Libya languish at the bottom with just 1 point from three matches.
With AFCON qualifiers set to resume in November, Nigeria remains on course to secure a tournament berth, regardless of CAF’s upcoming ruling.
CAF’s decision on Wednesday will likely determine whether Libya or Nigeria faces sanctions or if the match will be rescheduled to a neutral ground.
