Super Eagles Stranded for Hours at Libyan Airport After Flight Diversion, Jeopardizing AFCON Match Preparations.
The Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, has faced significant challenges in Libya as they prepare for the second leg of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier. After their flight was unexpectedly diverted on Sunday, the players and officials have been stranded at Al Abraq International Airport, with the situation now lasting over 15 hours.
The team was originally bound for Benghazi, where the match against the Libyan side is scheduled to take place on Tuesday. However, the aircraft carrying the Super Eagles was diverted mid-flight to Al Abraq Airport, a smaller hub typically used for hajj operations and located three hours away from their intended destination.
Upon landing, the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) revealed that no Libyan officials were present to receive the team or provide transportation. The players were left waiting with no immediate access to food, water, or internet for hours. Attempts by the NFF to arrange alternative transport were reportedly blocked by local authorities, escalating tensions further.
Several reports indicate that the delay and lack of support may be deliberate, potentially aimed at exhausting the Super Eagles ahead of the crucial match. In response, some players have expressed frustration, with a few reportedly contemplating boycotting the match altogether due to the treatment received.
In reaction to the unfolding crisis, Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Ministry has initiated efforts to resolve the issue. The Nigerian mission in Libya has also sent representatives to support the team, while diplomatic pressure is being applied to secure the team’s safe transport to Benghazi. Supplies and internet access were provided by members of the Nigerian community in Libya to help ease the discomfort.
The Super Eagles had previously secured a 1-0 win against Libya in the first leg played in Uyo, Nigeria, but the disruption raises concerns about their preparedness for the return fixture. If the situation remains unresolved, the match may be canceled, with potential repercussions from the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
This incident has drawn criticism from Nigerian officials and sports analysts, with calls for CAF to investigate the treatment of the team.
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