Libya threatens legal action as Super Eagles abandon AFCON qualifier

The Libyan Football Federation (LFF) has expressed its dissatisfaction with the Nigeria Football Federation’s (NFF) decision to abandon the second-leg fixture of the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.

Libya’s football authorities believe Nigeria overreacted to the challenges the team faced upon arrival and accuse the Super Eagles of being unwilling to cooperate.

The LFF alleged that Nigeria’s actions mirrored their own experiences in Uyo, where the Libyan national team was inconvenienced before a 1-0 defeat to the Super Eagles, led by interim coach Austine Eguavoen. According to Libya, despite the obstacles faced in Nigeria, they still fulfilled their commitment and played the match.

The controversy began after the Super Eagles’ ValueJet flight was diverted from Benghazi to the Al-Abraq Airport, despite prior landing clearance at Benghazi. Upon arrival, the Nigerian delegation was stranded for over 20 hours without transportation, accommodation, food, or any form of communication assistance from the hosts.

In response to the unfolding drama, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) issued a statement confirming that it is investigating the incident:

“The Confederation Africaine de Football (CAF) has been in contact with the Libyan and Nigerian authorities after learning of the Nigerian National Team’s ordeal. The matter has been referred to the CAF Disciplinary Board for investigation, and appropriate action will be taken against any parties found guilty of violating CAF statutes.”

CAF further attempted to mediate by encouraging Nigeria’s Minister of Sports, Senator John Owan Enoh, to allow the team to proceed with the game on October 15th, but the minister prioritized the safety and well-being of the team. The NFF ultimately decided to forfeit the match, citing exhaustion, dehydration, and concerns about the players’ health.

The Libyan FA, feeling aggrieved by Nigeria’s decision, announced its intention to pursue legal action through CAF. The LFF also released footage of their experiences in Uyo, which they claim could have warranted them boycotting the first-leg fixture but stressed that they proceeded out of respect for CAF regulations. In an apology to their fans, the LFF expressed disappointment with the outcome and vowed to defend the interests of the Libyan national team.

The Super Eagles have now safely returned to Kano, Nigeria, where they were warmly welcomed by fans. The players were treated to traditional dishes, including fufu and egusi, in an effort to lift their spirits.

Despite the setback, Nigeria remains at the top of their group with 7 points from three matches, while Libya languishes at the bottom with just 1 point.

CAF’s investigation will determine whether sanctions will be imposed on Libya for the mistreatment of the Nigerian team or if Nigeria will face penalties for abandoning the match. The outcome of the disciplinary process could impact both teams’ standing in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.

For now, the focus shifts to CAF’s Disciplinary Board, which must balance justice with diplomacy in addressing the complaints from both federations.

Will Libya be docked points, or will Nigeria face sanctions for their decision to forfeit? Football fans across the continent are eagerly awaiting CAF’s verdict.