AFCON: Libya jittery as CAF demands response to Nigeria’s protest

The Libyan Football Federation is in a state of alarm after CAF requested documentation regarding the cancellation of the AFCON qualifying Group D match against Nigeria. This request follows Nigeria’s refusal to participate in the match due to their plane being rerouted to Labraq Airport, where they were stranded for 18 hours without food or water.

In an exclusive statement to Libya Al-Ahrar, Nasser Al-Suwaie, the Secretary-General and head of the federation, confirmed that CAF has set a deadline of the 20th of this month for both the Libyan and Nigerian football associations to submit the necessary documentation. Al-Suwaie also mentioned that the Libyan FA has engaged a specialized lawyer to gather evidence, suggesting potential collusion from certain individuals within CAF, while asserting that Libya’s position remains robust.

Al-Suwaie emphasized that the decision to change the plane’s landing to Al-Abraq Airport was made by the Libyan government, underscoring the need for respect for Libyan sovereignty. The Super Eagles returned to Nigeria on Monday, recounting their distressing experience of sleeping on the cold floor of the airport. Team manager Patrick Pascal noted that the restroom facilities had been intentionally tampered with by Libyan officials in preparation for their arrival.