CAF launches investigation into Libya over Super Eagles incident
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has launched an official investigation into a dispute between Libya and Nigeria following an incident involving the Super Eagles’ delayed arrival for their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier.
The Super Eagles were scheduled to face Libya’s national team, the Mediterranean Knights, as part of their Group A qualifiers, but events took a controversial turn that has now prompted a formal inquiry.
The trouble began when the Nigerian team found themselves stranded at Al Abraq International Airport in Libya, far from their intended destination in Benghazi.
This unexpected detour left the Super Eagles and their technical staff stranded for over 13 hours without transportation or clear communication from the Libyan authorities.
As a result, the match between the two teams was postponed, and CAF stepped in to assess the situation.
In a statement released by CAF, the governing body expressed concern over the treatment of the Nigerian national team, saying, “CAF has been in contact with both the Libyan and Nigerian authorities after being informed that the Nigerian National Football Team, the Super Eagles, and their technical team were left stranded in disturbing conditions at an airport where they were allegedly instructed to land by the Libyan authorities.”
CAF emphasized that the matter has been referred to its Disciplinary Board for further investigation, with potential sanctions looming for those found to have violated CAF’s statutes and regulations.
The matter will be thoroughly investigated, and appropriate action will be taken against any individuals or parties who breached CAF’s rules governing the competition,” the statement added.
The root of the issue appears to stem from an abrupt change in the Nigerian team’s flight plan.
The Super Eagles were initially scheduled to land in Benghazi ahead of their match against Libya, but their flight was rerouted to Al Abraq Airport, more than two hours away from the original destination.
Upon arrival, the team was left without transport, reportedly abandoned without proper arrangements by the Libyan Football Federation.
Reports of the incident sparked outrage among Nigerian fans and officials alike, as the players were forced to endure uncomfortable conditions while awaiting further instructions.
The delay not only disrupted the Super Eagles’ preparations for the crucial AFCON qualifier but also raised concerns about the organization of the match and the treatment of visiting teams in international tournaments.
CAF’s swift response indicates its determination to ensure that such incidents do not tarnish the integrity of the tournament.
The investigation will seek to determine whether the Libyan authorities were responsible for the logistical failure and what consequences, if any, should follow.
The Super Eagles have since returned to Nigeria, and it remains unclear when the postponed match will be rescheduled.
In the meantime, all eyes are on CAF’s Disciplinary Board as it prepares to release its findings and any resulting penalties.
With the AFCON 2025 qualifiers in full swing, this development serves as a reminder of the importance of fair play, professionalism, and proper coordination in hosting international sporting events.
Fans and officials alike await CAF’s ruling on the matter and hope that appropriate steps will be taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
