The Libyan Football Federation is experiencing significant distress following a request from CAF to provide documentation concerning the cancellation of the AFCON qualifying Group D match against Nigeria. This situation arose after Nigeria declined to participate in the match due to their flight being redirected to Labraq Airport, where they were reportedly held for 18 hours without access to food or water.
As reported by Libya Al-Ahrar Channel, Nasser Al-Suwaie, the Secretary-General and the individual responsible for the federation’s operations, stated in an exclusive interview 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 regarding this matter.
Al-Suwaie further disclosed that the Libyan Football Association has engaged a specialized attorney to gather evidence. He also suggested the possibility of collusion by certain parties within CAF, while asserting that the Libyan Federation’s position remains robust.
Al-Suwaie stated that the Libyan Federation did not alter the flight’s landing destination to Al-Abraq Airport. He emphasized that the decision to redirect the plane to Al-Abraq was made by the Libyan government, asserting that the sovereignty of Libya should be acknowledged and respected by all parties involved.
The Super Eagles arrived back in the country on Monday, recounting distressing experiences of having to take turns sleeping on the cold floor of the airport. Team manager Patrick Pascal elaborated that the toilets had been intentionally left in a deplorable state by Libyan officials in preparation for their arrival.
