By Mario Deepromoter

The Libyan Football Federation (LFF) has said that it would not condone excuses from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to boycott the second leg of the Group D 2025 African Cup of Nations qualifier tie against the Super Eagles.

The LFF disclosed this on its X handle on Tuesday after the Super Eagles pulled out of the match, scheduled for Tuesday, October 15, citing safety concerns after being stranded at Al Abaq Airport for more than 13 hours due to an unexpected flight diversion on Sunday.

Sharing several photos of their players’ training session, LFF wrote: “Some may be used to putting up obstacles before the match, but here in the heart of Benghazi, specifically on the grounds of the Martyrs of Benina Stadium, there is no room for excuses after the starting whistle.

Source:Citynewsng

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has released an official statement following the recent ordeal involving the Nigerian Super Eagles at the Al Abaq Airport in Libya, which led to the postponement of their scheduled second-leg clash in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.

The Nigerian team, who were set to face Libya after a 1-0 victory in Uyo during the first leg, were stranded for over 16 hours after their flight was diverted to Al Abaq. The players were left unattended at the airport, resulting in frustration and health concerns ahead of the crucial match.

As a result, the Super Eagles made a U-turn and returned to Nigeria, raising serious questions about the logistics and organization of the game. The situation has sparked reactions from African football legends, including Emmanuel Adebayor and Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang, who expressed their disappointment at the handling of the Nigerian contingent.

CAF, in its statement, condemned the situation and revealed that an investigation into the incident is currently underway. The disciplinary board is tasked with determining whether any regulations were violated, and sanctions are expected based on their findings.

Key Points From CAF’s Statement:

1. CAF’s involvement: The governing body is actively engaged in resolving the situation.

2. Communication with authorities: CAF confirmed it has been in direct contact with both Libyan and Nigerian authorities regarding the incident.

3. Super Eagles stranded: CAF expressed concern over the treatment of the Super Eagles players during their time at the airport.

4. Flight diversion: It was acknowledged that the Nigerian team’s flight was diverted to Al Abaq, contributing to the disruption.

5. Disciplinary investigation: The CAF disciplinary board is investigating the issue to ensure accountability.

6. Potential sanctions: CAF hinted that appropriate actions will be taken in line with its statutes and regulations once the investigation concludes.

Libya vs Nigeria Second Leg Postponed: what next?

With the game now postponed, CAF is expected to announce a new date for the second-leg encounter, while fans and stakeholders await the outcome of the investigation.

The Libyan Football Federation (LFF) has reacted to the poor treatment meted out to the Super Eagles by authorities in the country.

The LFF claimed it had no hand in the barbaric act.

“We are deeply concerned about the recent reports surrounding the diversion of the Nigerian national team’s flight ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Libya,”the LFA said in a statement on Monday.

While we regret any inconvenience caused, it is essential to note that such incidents can occur due to routine air traffic control protocols, security checks, or logistical challenges that affect international air travel.

“These are standard procedures at airports worldwide, and delays or rerouting, though unfortunate, are not uncommon.

“We have the utmost respect for our Nigerian counterparts and want to reassure them that the diversion of their flight was not intentional.

There are no grounds to accuse the Libyan security teams or the Libyan Football Federation of deliberately orchestrating this incident. Such actions are inconsistent with our values and principles.

“We firmly reject any claims that suggest foul play or sabotage in this situation.

“It is important to highlight that just last week, our own national team faced significant challenges upon our arrival in Nigeria for the third match of the Africa Cup of Nations qualification.”

Sundry media reports had said that players and officials of the Super Eagles were held hostage at the Al Abaq Airport for several hours following the team’s arrival in the country on Sunday night.