The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced an investigation into Libya’s alleged attempts to disrupt Nigeria’s preparations for their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
Nigerian players, including prominent figures like William Troost-Ekong and Victor Boniface, took to social media to express their frustration after being stranded at the airport for nearly 14 hours.
They accused Libya of intentionally diverting their flight to a remote location, Al Abraq, which is about 230 kilometers away from Benghazi, where the match was scheduled to be played.
CAF confirmed that it has been in contact with Libyan and Nigerian authorities and has referred the matter to its Disciplinary Board. The organization will take appropriate action against those who violated its statutes and regulations.
“The Confederation Africaine de Football (CAF) has been in contact with the Libyan and Nigerian authorities after it was informed that the Nigerian National Football Team (‘Super Eagles’) and their technical team were stranded in disturbing conditions for several hours at an airport that they were allegedly instructed to land by the Libyan authorities,” CAF said in a statement.
“The matter has been referred to the CAF Disciplinary Board for investigation, and appropriate action will be taken against those who violated the CAF Statutes and Regulations.”
Reports suggest the incident may be a retaliation for Nigeria’s treatment of Libya during a previous match. A hefty fine could be imposed on Libya if found guilty.
Nigeria, a top contender in Group D, was aiming for a win in Libya to secure their place in the upcoming AFCON finals in Morocco.