By 9jaeye 
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially delisted the highly anticipated AFCON 2025 qualifier match between Nigeria and Libya. Initially scheduled for Tuesday, the match was removed from CAF’s fixture list following a series of controversies and sabotage allegations. This development came after Nigeria’s Super Eagles refused to play, citing serious security concerns and inhumane treatment upon their arrival in Libya.
The Nigerian delegation, led by captain William Troost-Ekong, faced an unexpected 14-hour delay at Al-Abraq Airport. The airport, located approximately 230 kilometers from Benghazi, had not been their intended destination. Upon arrival, the team was forced to wait without access to basic amenities, leading to further frustration. Troost-Ekong, taking to social media, announced that the team would not undertake a three-hour bus journey to the match venue, saying, “As the team captain, I have decided that we will NOT play this game. Let them have the points.” This statement ignited widespread debate, with the decision supported by Nigerian officials, including those traveling with the team.
Libya Denies Sabotage Claims
In response, the Libya Football Federation (LFF) dismissed all claims of deliberate sabotage, asserting that the Nigerian team had been treated fairly. The LFF further emphasized that they had made adequate transportation and security arrangements, and rejected accusations that they had contributed to the delays or mistreatment of the Nigerian team. This denial has not calmed tensions, with Nigerian football officials calling for an investigation.
Calls for Sanctions Against Libya
Following the incident, Victor Ikpeba, a former African Footballer of the Year who was traveling with the Super Eagles, demanded that CAF impose sanctions on Libya. He described the conditions faced by the Nigerian delegation as appalling, likening their situation to being “locked up like hostages.” Ikpeba further advocated for Libya’s potential ban from international football due to the alleged mistreatment. This sentiment is gaining traction within Nigeria’s football community, with growing calls for CAF to take a firm stand.
CAF, responding to these issues, delisted the Libya vs Nigeria match and promised a thorough investigation into the events. The Nigerian delegation has since returned home, with both teams awaiting further updates on potential rescheduling or legal actions. This incident has intensified scrutiny over how teams are treated during international competitions and could influence future match regulations.
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