On Saturday, a meeting was convened between representatives from Libyan Premier League clubs and those from the first, second, and third divisions at the Tripoli branch of the Libyan Football Federation.
The President of the Tripoli Branch, Abdulmoula Al-Maghribi attended the session, where mechanisms and formats for the youth league across all divisions were discussed.
Sport journalist Al-Mutasim Al-Sweii explained to the Libyan News Agency that the attendees agreed on organizing a youth category competition for the Premier League clubs, which includes ten clubs, in a home and away format. The matches will be held in neutral venues without any spectators, with derby matches between the clubs being designated as special events.
For the first, second, and third division clubs, they have been divided into three groups, in a single round-robin format (one leg only), with some schools and academies added for participation. This sports season for the youth categories is considered exceptional due to the tight schedule from the start of the season, as well as recent changes in the Libyan Football Federation.
The attendees expressed the importance of these adjustments to ensure the competitions proceed in an organized manner and to achieve fairness among all participating clubs. The draw for all divisions is scheduled for the coming Saturday.
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.
