Nigeria – NFF Pulls Super Eagles Out of AFCON Qualifier After 12-Hour Airport Ordeal in Libya

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially withdrawn the Super Eagles from their scheduled 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Libya, following a harrowing 12-hour ordeal at Al Abraq International Airport.

AFRICAN CULTURE TV had reported that the Nigerian team had been stranded at the small Libyan airport since their arrival on Sunday afternoon, with no assistance or transportation provided by the Libyan Football Federation, as well as food.

The Super Eagles were en route to Benghazi for their crucial qualifier when their chartered flight was unexpectedly diverted mid-flight to Al Abraq, an airport usually used for Hajj operations.

According to reports, the diversion created a dangerous situation, leaving the team stuck without food, shelter, or proper communication facilities.

Frustrated by the lack of organization and hospitality, the NFF decided to pull the team out of Tuesday’s fixture, prioritizing the players’ well-being.

Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong condemned the treatment of the Nigerian squad, expressing his disappointment over the poor handling of their situation.

In a post on social media on Monday, Troost-Ekong also shared pictures of his distressed teammates, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

The incident has sparked outrage among Nigerian football fans, with many criticizing the lack of logistical support provided by the Libyan Football Federation and questioning the safety standards for international matches.

As the NFF works on bringing the team back home, the episode underscores the need for better planning and coordination in African football.