The Super Eagles of Nigeria and their officials have been stranded at Al Abraq Airport in Libya for more than 15 hours, following an unexpected diversion of their flight from Benghazi.
The Nigerian national team was set to play the second leg of their AFCON 2025 qualifier against Libya, but logistical issues have left them stuck without proper transportation or hospitality.
The team had expected to land in Benghazi, where the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) had made transport arrangements. However, just an hour before arrival, their chartered flight was diverted to Al Abraq, a city over two hours away by road from Benghazi.
Upon landing, the Super Eagles were left waiting at the airport for over four hours, with no transport provided by the Libyan Football Federation.
Despite efforts by the NFF to arrange alternative transport, the team remained locked in at the airport, with local authorities refusing to open the gates. The Nigerian delegation, which had arrived full of optimism, found themselves fatigued and stranded in humiliating conditions.
The situation has raised questions about Libya’s intentions, with many speculating whether this is a case of calculated mind games.
Tensions between the two teams may have roots in their first-leg encounter in Nigeria, where Libyan media accused the Super Eagles of mistreating their delegation—a claim strongly denied by the NFF.
After hours of waiting, the Nigerian players, exhausted and concerned for their health, unanimously decided not to play the match.
The NFF is now working on emergency plans to fly the team back to Nigeria as soon as possible, citing player well-being and the deteriorating situation.
With the match now shrouded in uncertainty, the Super Eagles have faced a different kind of challenge—one off the pitch, leaving fans and officials frustrated.
