Sport
CAF Demands Documents from Libya After Nigeria’s AFCON Match Cancellation
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has reached out to the Libyan Football Federation (LFF) requesting specific documentation related to the cancellation of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match in Group D against Nigeria.
The Super Eagles were scheduled to face Libya on October 15 but withdrew from the fixture after a harrowing incident.
Their flight was redirected to Labraq Airport, where players endured an alarming 18-hour ordeal.
During this time, they were held in a restricted area without access to the internet, food, or water, which led to their decision to forfeit the match.
Nasser Al-Suwaie, the Secretary-General of the LFF and the official overseeing the federation’s operations has confirmed that CAF has set a deadline of October 20 for both the Libyan and Nigerian football associations to submit the necessary documents related to this incident.
In a statement, Al-Suwaie indicated that the LFF has engaged a legal representative to compile and present evidence supporting their case.
Al-Suwaie has also raised concerns about possible collusion from certain factions within CAF, expressing confidence in the strength of the Libyan Federation’s position.
He emphasized that the LFF is not responsible for the aircraft’s change in flight path that led to the unscheduled landing at Al-Abraq Airport.
According to him, this decision was made at the level of the Libyan state, and he stressed that the sovereignty of Libya should be acknowledged and respected by all parties involved.
This situation highlights the complexities surrounding international sports events, especially in regions where political and security issues intersect with athletic competitions.
The implications of such incidents extend beyond football, impacting diplomatic relations and national pride.
The outcome of the CAF’s investigation and the subsequent actions of both football federations will be closely watched as they unfold in the coming days.
Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade has assured fans that the team is ready to fight for glory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. The tournament kicks off today with hosts Morocco facing Ghana’s Copper Queens in the opening match.
Nigeria will begin their campaign on Sunday against Tunisia at the Labri Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca. This will be only the second time both teams are meeting at WAFCON, with their first clash in 2008 ending goalless in Equatorial Guinea. The Super Falcons, who had a disappointing outing three years ago finishing fourth, are determined to bounce back and go for their tenth continental title.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, Ajibade expressed confidence in the squad’s mindset. “We’re happy to be here and ready to give our all,” she said during a recent CAF webinar. “We know the road won’t be easy, but we’re prepared to give it everything.”
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has described late Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, as a true symbol of national pride. The party’s spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, shared the tribute in Abuja on Friday, calling Rufai, popularly known as Dodo Mayana, a legend of Nigerian football.
He said Rufai stood out as one of the greatest goalkeepers to ever defend Nigeria’s colours, adding that he embodied the courage, brilliance, and determination that define the Nigerian spirit. According to him, Rufai’s time on the pitch was more than just football. With every save and every moment he stepped onto the field, he proudly flew the Nigerian flag with unmatched skill, passion, and grace.
The party also extended heartfelt condolences to Rufai’s family, friends, the football community, and everyone his remarkable legacy touched. They prayed that his memory continues to inspire young Nigerians to dream, to serve, and to rise, just as he did.
The Super Falcons have unveiled their official squad numbers for the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. Most of the team’s key players will be holding on to their familiar shirt numbers for the tournament.
Asisat Oshoala, six-time African Women’s Footballer of the Year and Nigeria’s biggest name, will be rocking the number 8 jersey. Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade also keeps her famous number 15 shirt. First-choice goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie will wear the number 16 jersey, while Benfica’s midfield powerhouse Christy Ucheibe will take on the iconic number 10 shirt.
In defence, the experienced Osinachi Ohale gets number 3, Ashleigh Plumptre keeps number 5, and Oluwatosin Demehin will wear 14. The Super Falcons will kick off their WAFCON campaign against Tunisia this Sunday. The Group B clash is set for the Labri Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, with kick-off scheduled for 5pm Nigerian time.
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