The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has pulled the Super Eagles out of Tuesday’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Libya following a grueling 12-hour delay at Al Abraq International Airport.
The Nigerian team was en route to Benghazi when their flight was unexpectedly diverted to the small, hajj-focused airport. Stranded without assistance from the Libyan Football Federation, players and officials were left at the airport for over 12 hours, with no transport provided to reach their hotel in Benghazi.
In a statement, the NFF described the situation as “dangerous,” explaining that the diverted flight occurred just as the plane was preparing to land at Benghazi. Frustrated and fatigued, the Super Eagles resolved not to play the match, with NFF officials supporting the decision and arranging for the team’s return to Nigeria.
Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong condemned the Libyan authorities’ actions, calling the situation “disgraceful.” He revealed that the team was left without food, drink, or phone connections at the abandoned airport, accusing the hosts of “mind games.”
The NFF is now focused on returning the team to Nigeria, marking an end to what was supposed to be a crucial AFCON qualifier.
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