Libya Set to Appeal CAF Verdict on Botched Super Eagles AFCON Qualifier

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Following the Confederation of African Football’s decision pertaining to the cancelled Africa Cup of Nations second leg qualifier against Nigeria, the Libya Football Federation (LFF), will appeal the decision to rule in favor of Nigeria.

A source revealed to Brila.net that the LFF is preparing to contest the ruling, believing it does not accurately reflect the circumstances surrounding the forfeited match.

The source indicated that Libya’s appeal is likely to be filed within the stipulated three-day window and will be handled discretely, without media fanfare.

“They will respond to CAF with a special lawyer without any media show,” the source noted.

On Saturday, an official by CAF  confirmed that its Disciplinary Board found Libya guilty of breaching several regulations, resulting in the forfeiture of the October 15 match.

The decision was made after the Nigerian team faced severe logistical challenges, including an unexpected diversion of their flight to Al-Abraq International Airport, where they were stranded for over 18 hours with no basic amenities.

The LFF is now faced with the challenge of mounting a compelling case against CAF’s ruling.

While the specifics of their appeal strategy remain unclear, it is evident that they are intent on reversing the decision that has placed them at the bottom of Group D in the AFCON qualifiers.

Though it seems unlikely that the appeal will change the outcome, all eyes will be on CAF’s response as Libya prepares to take this step.

The Federation’s reaction will determine whether they uphold their initial ruling or reconsider the circumstances of the match.

The outcome of this appeal could have significant implications for the ongoing qualification process, particularly for Nigeria, who currently needs only one more point to secure their place in the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.