The Nigerian Super Eagles are still in a precarious situation after being stranded at Al Abraq International Airport in Libya for over 12 hours. En route to Benghazi for their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against the Mediterranean Knights, the team was unexpectedly diverted to the smaller airport.
According to the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), the chartered ValueJet aircraft was diverted just as the pilot was completing his approach to Benghazi Airport. The Al Abraq International Airport is typically only used for Hajj operations, and the unexpected change left the Nigerian delegation stranded without any assistance from the Libyan Football Federation.
The NFF expressed deep frustration and concern over the situation, stating that the host federation had failed to send any reception team or even vehicles to transport the players and officials from the airport to their hotel, which is located three hours away in Benghazi.
The team has reportedly resolved to boycott the match, and NFF officials are now working to arrange a flight back to Nigeria. This development casts significant doubt over the future of the AFCON qualifier.
The Super Eagles had defeated Libya 1-0 in the first leg of the encounter in Uyo on Friday. The scheduled match in Benghazi was expected to be a crucial tie for both teams.
This incident marks a significant setback for the Nigerian football team, which has been working hard to qualify for the 2025 AFCON tournament. The NFF is now facing the challenge of resolving the current crisis and ensuring the safety and well-being of the Super Eagles.
