Super Eagles Stranded for 15 Hours in Libya Amid Travel Chaos
In a shocking turn of events, Nigeria‘s national football team, the Super Eagles, have refused to play their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Libya after being stranded at an airport for over 15 hours. The team, which arrived in Libya on Sunday night, was diverted to Al Abraq Airport—over 200km from their intended destination, Benghazi—leaving players fatigued, frustrated, and without basic necessities.
According to the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), the chartered flight was unexpectedly rerouted mid-flight, forcing the team to land at an airport primarily used for Hajj operations. With no reception team or transportation provided by the Libyan Football Federation, players and staff were left stranded without food, water, or proper accommodations.
Players Take a Stand: “We Will Not Play This Game”
Frustration reached a boiling point as Nigeria‘s captain, William Troost-Ekong, took to social media to condemn the treatment of the team.
“12+ hours in an abandoned airport in Libya after our plane was diverted whilst descending. The Libyan government rescinded our approved landing in Benghazi with no reason,” Troost-Ekong tweeted. “They’ve locked the airport gates and left us without phone connection, food, or drink. All to play mind games.”
The former Watford defender described the situation as “disgraceful behavior” and confirmed that the team had collectively decided not to proceed with the match.
NFF Seeks Immediate Repatriation Amid Safety Concerns
The NFF has since arranged for the team’s return to Nigeria, citing security risks and the players’ deteriorating mental and physical condition.
“Fatigued players and officials have remained nonplussed as the host Libyan Football Federation failed to send any reception team,” read an official NFF statement. “Players have resolved not to play the match any longer as NFF officials are making plans to fly the team back home.”
With Libya still recovering from civil unrest, concerns over road travel safety further complicated the situation. The Super Eagles refused to risk a three-hour journey to Benghazi, fearing potential dangers.
Outrage in Nigeria: Calls for CAF Intervention
Nigerian journalist Cecilia Omorogbe, speaking from Lagos, highlighted the growing anger among fans and officials.
“There is outrage in Nigeria,” Omorogbe stated. “We are all really sad. Most Nigerians are standing behind the players, telling them not to play the game. They are not in the frame of mind to compete after this ordeal.”
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) now faces pressure to investigate the incident, with many questioning whether Libya should face sanctions for failing to meet hosting standards.
Six6s Verdict: A Dark Day for African Football
This incident raises serious concerns about player welfare and tournament organization in African football. The Super Eagles’ boycott sends a strong message—teams should not be subjected to inhumane conditions in the name of competition.
As the NFF works to bring their players home safely, Six6s will continue to monitor developments and provide updates on potential CAF rulings.
What’s Next?
- Will CAF take disciplinary action against Libya?
- How will this affect Nigeria’s AFCON qualification campaign?
- Could this lead to stricter travel and hosting regulations in future tournaments?
Stay tuned to Six6s for the latest in-depth analysis and breaking sports news. Share your thoughts in the comments—do you support Nigeria’s decision to boycott the match?
