The Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, has been left stranded for over 12 hours at Abraq Airport in Libya after their flight was unexpectedly diverted by Libyan authorities. The disruption occurred ahead of their crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Libya in Benghazi, sparking tensions and prompting the Nigerian players to threaten a boycott.
According to team captain William Troost-Ekong, the Super Eagles were initially scheduled to land in Benghazi but were forced to reroute to the remote Abraq Airport without explanation. The players and staff were left at the airport without food, water, or phone access, waiting through the night. “We’ve experienced tough conditions playing away in Africa before, but this is unacceptable. We’ve decided we won’t play under these circumstances,” Ekong posted on social media, calling on the Nigerian government and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to intervene.
Libyan authorities suggested the team travel by road from Abraq to Benghazi, a journey of over three hours, but the Nigerian squad refused due to safety concerns. “Even with security, the road is not safe, and we don’t know what kind of reception we’ll get on arrival,” Ekong stated.
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) confirmed the players’ ordeal, revealing that efforts to secure hotel accommodations near the airport were blocked. “All nearby hotels refused to accommodate us, claiming they had orders not to welcome Nigerians,” the NFF disclosed. With no viable alternatives, the team was forced to sleep inside the aircraft.
The incident appears to be a retaliatory response from Libya after their national team reportedly faced poor treatment during their recent visit to Nigeria. On arrival in Lagos last week, Libyan players were held at the airport for over three hours and forced to sit on the floor. They later endured a difficult 200-kilometer journey to Uyo for the first leg of the AFCON qualifiers, which Nigeria narrowly won 1-0.
As the Super Eagles’ return match in Benghazi hangs in doubt, Ekong expressed frustration, stating, “We can’t play under such conditions. Let them take the points if they want.”
The unfolding situation raises questions about sportsmanship and logistics in African competitions, with growing calls for CAF to intervene and improve travel arrangements for national teams. The diplomatic tension between the two football associations threatens to derail the AFCON qualifiers, while the safety and dignity of players remain the top priority.
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