The Libyan Football Federation (LFF) has expressed strong disapproval of Nigeria’s decision to pull out of the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier. In response, the LFF has vowed to take legal action to protect its national team’s interests.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles withdrew from the scheduled match against Libya, citing safety concerns after being stranded for over 13 hours at Al Abaq Airport. The delay, caused by an unexpected flight diversion, led to Nigeria’s decision to forgo the fixture set for Tuesday, October 15.
In an official statement shared by The Libya Observer, the LFF criticized the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) for not cooperating with them during the match’s organization. The statement read, “The Libyan Football Federation condemns the measures taken by the Nigerian Football Federation by refusing to play the Libya-Nigeria match in the African Cup of Nations qualifiers scheduled for Tuesday, October 15, stressing that it will take all legal measures to preserve the interests of the Libyan national football team.”
The LFF also highlighted that the NFF had shown no cooperation throughout the preparations for both the first and second leg matches. The statement emphasized that the situation faced by the Super Eagles was minimal compared to the challenges the Libyan team encountered during the first leg. This reference suggests that Libya had previously faced similar or worse logistical difficulties, which they managed without pulling out.
The LFF apologized to Libyan football fans, acknowledging the confusion and delays surrounding the match arrangements. It attributed these issues to the Nigerian Football Federation’s actions, which they claimed disrupted the schedule.
“The Libyan Football Federation apologises to Libyan football fans everywhere and to the parties concerned with the match arrangements due to the state of confusion caused by the Nigerian Football Federation, which led to the match not being held on time,” the statement concluded.
The LFF’s decision to pursue legal action demonstrates the seriousness with which it views the matter. As tensions escalate, the football community is watching closely to see how the situation unfolds and whether a resolution can be reached.
I think Nigeria should face consequences for pulling out of the AFCON qualifier. Rules are rules, no exceptions! Libya has every right to take legal action.
I cant believe Nigeria withdrew! Should they face legal action? What do you all think? Lets debate! #AFCONQualifier drama.
I think Nigeria had valid reasons for withdrawing. The Libyan Football Federation should focus on resolving issues rather than legal action.
Is it just me or does Nigerias withdrawal from the AFCON qualifier seem fishy? Lets dig deeper into this! 🤔🤨
Its not fishy, just a decision based on safety concerns. Lets respect their choice.
I think Nigeria should be penalized for pulling out of the AFCON qualifier. Rules are rules, right? Let the legal action begin!
I think Nigeria made the right call withdrawing from the AFCON qualifier. Who needs more drama in African football anyway?
I think Nigerias withdrawal was justified. Lets not forget the bigger picture – players safety should always come first!
Player safety is paramount, but Nigerias withdrawal was a missed opportunity for progress in Africa.
Why is everyone so quick to judge Nigerias decision? Maybe theres more to the story than we know. Lets not jump to conclusions.
I cant believe Nigeria is pulling out of the AFCON qualifier! Are they scared of losing to Libya or just playing mind games? 🤔
I think Nigeria should just accept the consequences. No need for legal drama, just play fair! Libyan Football Federation aint playing around.
I think Nigeria had valid reasons for pulling out. The Libyan Football Federation should focus on improving their own team.
I think Nigeria had valid reasons for withdrawing. Lets not jump to conclusions before hearing both sides. Legal action seems extreme.
I think Nigerias withdrawal is justified. They have their reasons, and everyone should respect their decision. Lets not jump to conclusions.
Respect Nigerias choice. They know whats best for them. Lets not judge without understanding.
I think Nigeria made the right call withdrawing from AFCON qualifier. Safety first, right? Let the legal drama unfold!
I think Nigerias withdrawal is justified. They should focus on internal issues first before committing to international competitions.
I think Nigerias withdrawal is a strategic move. Libyan Federation should focus on improving their team instead of legal action.
I think Nigeria had a valid reason to withdraw. Libya should focus on improving their own team instead of legal action.
I believe Nigeria had valid reasons to withdraw. Lets not jump to conclusions and consider both sides. Legal action seems extreme.
I think Nigeria should just accept the consequences and move on. Lets see how this legal action drama unfolds!
Accepting consequences? How about accountability for wrongdoings? Legal action is necessary for justice.
I think Nigeria should stick to their decision. The Libyan Football Federation needs to chill and focus on playing the game.
I dont get why Nigerias withdrawal is such a big deal. Lets focus on the game and move on!
Nigerias withdrawal affects the integrity of the tournament. Its not just about the game.
I think the Libyan Football Federation should focus on improving their own team instead of pursuing legal action. Lets see fair play on the field!
I think Nigeria should stick to their decision to withdraw. Its their right, and legal action seems excessive. Lets see how this plays out!