The city of Derna will host the second edition of the Arab Mini-Football Championship for national teams in February 2025.
This announcement was made by Ahmed Samir, President of the Arab Mini-Football Federation, during a press conference held on Saturday in Derna, which is currently hosting the Arab Clubs Champions Mini-Football Championship.
Samir stated that the championship will take place at the recently inaugurated International Mini-Football Stadium. The city is currently hosting the first edition of the Arab Clubs Championship, featuring six teams, including two from Libya: Al-Afriqi from Zliten and Al-Khitaf from Benghazi.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
