The Libyan Football Federation (LFF) is reportedly preparing for the next steps in response to potential CAF sanctions following the Super Eagles’ airport incident in Libya. The Nigerian national team’s chartered flight, initially scheduled to land in Benghazi, was unexpectedly rerouted to Al Abraq International Airport by Libyan authorities, despite earlier confirmations that Benghazi was safe for landing.

At Al Abraq, the Super Eagles’ players and staff were stranded for nearly 16 hours without access to basic amenities, leading to the postponement of the match. This led the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) to file an official complaint with CAF, prompting an investigation into the situation.

CAF officials conducted a hearing during their 46th Ordinary General Assembly in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Representing Nigeria was Amaju Pinnick, former NFF President and FIFA Council member, while Secretary General Nasser Al-Suwaie stood for Libya. The Tunisian pilot of the Super Eagles’ chartered flight also provided technical details surrounding the flight’s diversion from Benina International Airport to Al Abraq.

The final verdict on the matter is expected this weekend. According to reports from Libya Al Ahrar TV, the LFF is already planning to appeal the decision potentially escalating the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) if they lose the case. This follows statements from CAF President Patrice Motsepe, who has hinted at imposing severe sanctions should foul play be confirmed.

The NFF is pushing for CAF to award three points and three goals to the Super Eagles, as they believe Libya was responsible for the match’s forfeiture. The Nigerian federation has reportedly gained support from two prominent West African nations Senegal and Cameroon.

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