By Izidoro Twinamasiko
SPORTS
The Libyan football federation confirmed Tuesday in a statement posted on Facebook the appointment of AFCON-winner Aliou Cisse as their new national team Gaffer replacing Nasser Al-Hadhiri whose departure details have not been publicly disclosed.
Al-Hadhiri who had been appointed in September 2024, experienced several obstacles including but not limited to injuries, suspensions, and player boycotts, which affected their readiness for crucial matches.
Cissé, who led Senegal to their first Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in 2021, departed from his role as Senegal’s head coach in October 2024, will lead Libya until 2027, the federation said.
“We welcome the best coach in Africa,” the statement read, without disclosing further details on Cisse’s new contract or its value.
In his new role as the Mediterranean Knights’ Gaffer, Cissé is expected to oversee not only the senior national team but also the U23 and U20 squads, aiming to revitalize Libyan football at multiple levels.
His immediate challenge is to prepare the team for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, with matches against Angola and Cameroon scheduled later this month.
