The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has withdrawn the Super Eagles from their scheduled 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Libya, following a frustrating 12-hour ordeal at Al Abraq International Airport. The team had been en route to Benghazi for the match, set for Tuesday, October 15, but encountered major setbacks when their chartered aircraft was unexpectedly diverted mid-flight.
Instead of landing at Benghazi Airport, the Super Eagles’ plane was redirected to Al Abraq, a small airport primarily used for hajj operations. Upon arrival, the team was left stranded with no assistance from the Libyan Football Federation, which failed to provide transportation or a welcoming party. The players and officials, already fatigued, were unable to reach their hotel in Benghazi, located three hours away.
In a statement released on Monday, the NFF expressed its deep frustration over the situation, condemning the lack of support from Libyan authorities. The federation emphasized that the team had been stranded at the airport for over 12 hours without any resolution.
The NFF confirmed that the Super Eagles have resolved not to play the match, citing the poor treatment and logistical issues. The federation is now making arrangements to fly the team back to Nigeria as soon as possible.
“The players have resolved not to play the match any longer as NFF officials are making plans to fly the team back home,” the statement concluded.
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