African football governing body, CAF, has postponed the 2015 African U-17 Championship qualifying match between Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
“However, in view of the upcoming match scheduled between DR Congo and Nigeria U-17 national teams on July 20th, 2014 in Lubumbashi, we wish to ensure that the African youth players maintain their chance of playing competitive football for their respective countries.
“As such, please be informed that CAF decided to postpone the above mentioned match from July 20th to July 27th, 2014.”
CAF’s decision comes as a welcome relief to the Nigeria Football Federation, whose officials patiently await positive communication from world football governing body, FIFA, on the suspension clamped on the country on July 9, due to a court order barring the Aminu Maigari–led Executive Committee from functioning.
The case, in question was withdrawn by the plaintiff, Mrs Baribote and on Thursday, the NFF communicated same to FIFA, praying the suspension be lifted since the principal reason for the clampdown had been met.
The match is the first leg of a 2015 African U-17 Championship qualifying fixture, and is Nigeria’s first step towards defending the world title won in the United Arab Emirates last year.
Venue of the match remains the TP Mazembe Stadium, Lubumbashi, and kick-off is 3.30pm Congo time (2.30pm Nigeria time) on the new date.
