The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is scheduled to announce its decision on the controversial AFCON qualifying match between Libya and Nigeria on Wednesday, October 23. The match, intended to take place at Benina Martyrs Stadium in Libya on October 15, was marred by significant issues that led to its cancellation.
The Nigerian team arrived in Libya on October 14 but faced a tumultuous situation when their flight was diverted to Al Abraq International Airport, approximately three hours from Benghazi, the match venue. The team was detained for about 17 hours before eventually returning home, leaving them traumatized.
In response to the ordeal, Nigeria lodged a formal complaint with CAF, expressing their concerns about the treatment they received. The Libyan Football Federation countered, asserting that the Nigerian team did not cooperate during either leg of the qualifying matches, suggesting that their own experience in Nigeria was more challenging.
CAF has described the conditions faced by the Nigerian team in Libya as "extremely dangerous," and has contacted both Libyan and Nigerian authorities regarding the situation. The matter has been referred to CAF’s disciplinary committee for investigation and appropriate action against any parties found to have violated regulations.
Following the incident, CAF removed the fixture from its calendar and announced its cancellation just hours before the scheduled kick-off. The final decision will address not only the chaotic events surrounding the second leg but also the first leg, which Nigeria won 1-0.
Libya Al-Ahrar Channel reported that the Libyan Football Federation has submitted all relevant documentation to CAF, supported by a specialized lawyer to oversee the case.