The Super Eagles will not play in Tuesday’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya, according to the decision made by the Nigeria Football Federation.
This comes after the crew was left stuck at Al Abraq International Airport in Libya for 12 grueling hours since their arrival on Sunday afternoon.
According to The PUNCH, the Nigerian delegation’s chartered aircraft was dangerously redirected to Al Abraq, a small airstrip usually used for hajj activities, mid-flight when they were en route to Benghazi for the pivotal qualifier.
The Libyan Football Federation neglected to provide transportation, leaving officials and players stranded in the wake of the unplanned detour.
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The NFF described the chaotic situation in detail in a statement on Monday, stating that the squad was unable to get to their hotel in Benghazi, which is three hours away, and had been stuck at the airport for more than 12 hours.
The NFF added that the players, who were worn out and angry, had made the decision not to participate in the game.
In accordance with the players’ choice, the NFF is currently making plans for the team to return to Nigeria, thereby removing them from the game.
Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong responded to the issue by denouncing the actions of the Libyan government.
Early on Monday morning, Troost-Ekong accused the hosts of playing “mind games” and called the scenario “disgraceful” in a series of tweets.
He disclosed that the group is housed in an abandoned airport with no access to food, drinks or internet.
Troost-Ekong also mentioned the difficulties faced by the Tunisian pilot, who managed the unexpected change in destination but was subsequently refused accommodation for his crew under government orders.
While the pilot could rest at the airport, Nigerian crew members were not allowed to stay, forcing them to sleep on the plane.
