A major controversy erupted ahead of the final match of Libya’s six-team championship playoff, scheduled to take place in Milan, after organisers announced the absence of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology. The announcement prompted both Al-Ahly Tripoli and Al-Hilal football clubs to issue official statements clarifying their positions.
Al-Ahly Tripoli declared its readiness to play despite the technical failure, accusing Al-Hilal of deliberately obstructing the match. The club held the Libyan Football Federation responsible for any postponement or cancellation and demanded that regulations be enforced should the opposing team withdraw. Al-Ahly also expressed frustration over the rescheduling of the match and the lack of a live broadcast on Libya Sports Channel.
Al-Hilal, on the other hand, insisted it would not participate unless VAR was reinstated, arguing that the technology is essential to ensure fairness and protect the rights of all parties. The club stated it would remain on the pitch until either the system was restored or an official decision was issued by the federation. It blamed the organising committee, appointed by the Government of National Unity, for poor planning and mismanagement.
