The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has acknowledged the predicament faced by Nigeria’s Super Eagles, who have been stranded at a local airport in Libya for several hours ahead of their 2025 AFCON qualifier against the host nation.
Lux September, CAF’s head of communications, stated, “CAF is aware of this matter and is in touch with both teams.”
In response to the situation, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) submitted a formal complaint to CAF yesterday.
Nigerian Sports Minister John Enoh stated that the primary concern should be the safety of the team rather than the CAF’s insistence on proceeding with the match.
Enoh mentioned that he had a conference call with CAF President Patrice Mostepe and the Secretary-General, highlighting the government’s priority.
“While the CAF President’s concern is about ensuring the national team participates in tomorrow’s match, I conveyed to CAF that the focus of the Nigerian government and its people is the safety of the team and their safe return. We urge CAF to collaborate with us on this matter.”
He further insisted that there must be significant consequences for the Libyan Football Federation due to this “unspeakable behaviour” and stressed that Nigeria should not be compelled to participate in the match under these circumstances.
The Super Eagles are flying back to Nigeria after declaring they won’t honour the match.
Power of social media. Apparently our plane is being fueled as we speak and we should be leaving to Nigeria shortly. Thanks for everyone’s support! 🇳🇬
I REITERATE: We would NEVER treat a guest nation for a game in this way. Mistakes happen, delays happen. But never on purpose!
— William Troost-Ekong (M.O.N) (@WTroostEkong) October 14, 2024
Source: Ghanasoccernet