The Super Eagles of Nigeria are returning from Libya 48 hours ahead of schedule due to the hostile reception they encountered. These top-tier players, highly sought after in Europe and globally, faced unexpected difficulties in the North African nation.
After Nigeria’s victory over Libya in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Friday, the return leg of the ongoing AFCON 2025 Qualifier was scheduled to take place in Benghazi, Libya, on Tuesday.
Before the return leg, the Nigerian team was expected to arrive at Benina International Airport, from where they would travel to Benghazi, the host city for the match. However, their chartered flight was unexpectedly diverted to Al Abaq International Airport, a facility typically used only for hajj operations. Strangely, no officials from the Libyan Football Federation (LFF) were present to welcome the team, contrary to established protocol. As a result, the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) arranged for the team to travel by road to Benghazi, but airport officials reportedly blocked access to the bus, leaving the players and officials stranded.
Commenting on the situation, Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface tweeted, “Been at the airport for almost 13 hours, no food, no Wi-Fi, nowhere to sleep. Africa, we can do better @caf.” Following this, the NFF released a statement updating Nigerians on the situation and announcing that the players had decided not to proceed with the match.
