CAF Removes Nigeria vs. Libya AFCON Qualifier from Schedule Amid Controversy

The Confederation of African Football has delisted the Group D second-leg fixture of the ongoing 2025 African Cup of Nations qualifier between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Mediterranean Knights of Libya.

The match was initially scheduled to take place in Libya at 8 PM, following the first leg held at Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, where the Super Eagles secured a narrow victory over the Mediterranean Knights with a lone goal in the dying minutes of the game.

However, the return leg has become controversial after Super Eagles players and officials recounted their ordeal of over 14 hours at the Libya airport, which ultimately led to their decision to return home.

The Super Eagles encountered significant challenges upon arriving in Libya, spending over 14 hours at the airport, which led to their decision to boycott the return leg.

The Nigerian team was diverted to Al-Abraq Airport, located approximately 230 kilometers from their intended destination, Benghazi.

Nigerian officials reported that their delegation faced “inhumane treatment,” with no access to basic amenities during their extended wait at the airport.

CAF has since launched an investigation into the incident after the Libya Football Federation made allegations of sabotage and hinted at potential legal action against Nigeria.

In a statement, CAF emphasized its seriousness regarding the “disturbing and unacceptable experiences” faced by the Nigerian team and confirmed that it has been in communication with both the Libyan and Nigerian authorities.

The Libyan Football Federation denied any claims of wrongdoing, stating, “There are no grounds to accuse the Libyan security teams or the Libyan Football Federation of deliberately orchestrating this incident.”

The Nigerian delegation has since returned home, confirming their departure from Al-Abraq Airport for Kano and then to Abuja.

CAF has also updated its schedule, omitting the Nigeria-Libya match from the fixtures for Tuesday.