Anxiety Grips Nigerian Football Fans as CAF Set to Announce Decision on Controversial Match

The situation escalated when the Nigerian players and officials arrived at the airport, only to find themselves stranded without any assistance from Libyan airport personnel, who appeared indifferent and communicated solely in Arabic. A video shared by the Eagles’ media team documented the distressing scene, revealing the players and their luggage abandoned at the airport.

Originally scheduled to play at the Martyrs of Benina Stadium near Benghazi, the Super Eagles’ plane was unexpectedly diverted to Al Abraq Airport, over 200 kilometers away. The airport, primarily used for hajj operations, lacked essential facilities, leaving the Nigerian contingent exhausted and frustrated. Furthermore, the Libyan Football Federation failed to arrange transport or provide adequate support, forcing the NFF to seek alternative travel solutions after the players spent more than 20 hours at the airport without food or water.

In the aftermath, the NFF declared their intention to boycott the match in response to the treatment received. Meanwhile, the Libyan Federation countered that the Nigerian team had not cooperated during the previous leg of the tie held in Nigeria, making the situation even more contentious.

CAF President Patrice Motsepe addressed the issue during a press conference after the organization’s 46th Ordinary General Assembly in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He confirmed that an investigation is underway, leaving many fans on edge as they await the verdict.

Ahead of the ruling, several football commentators have expressed concerns about the potential outcomes. Popular sports broadcaster Ken Ochonogor stated, “We have a good case, but as you well know, it all boils down to politics. I read somewhere that Morocco and a few other North African countries have thrown their weight behind Libya. Let’s see how it goes.”

Another fan, Kayoed Ogun, shared his apprehensions on social media, saying, “I don’t like the sound of this. He gives me the impression that he may also sanction Nigeria for how the Libyans were received when they came to Nigeria, even though it was entirely their fault.”

As the football community waits with bated breath for CAF’s decision, the outcome could have significant implications for both teams and the integrity of the tournament.