Super Eagles Threaten Boycott of AFCON Qualifier as Libyan Authorities Detain Team at Airport

Nigeria’s Super Eagles are threatening to boycott their crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Libya after being stranded at Al Abraq Airport for over 12 hours upon their arrival in the country.

The Eagles, who departed Nigeria on Sunday morning for their match against the Mediterranean Knights, have faced significant challenges since landing. A statement from the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) Communications Department revealed that the team remains stuck at the airport, with no assistance from Libyan authorities.

A video shared by the Eagles’ media team captured the frustration of players and officials as they waited with their luggage, with airport personnel showing little concern for their situation.

The Super Eagles were supposed to play at the 10,000-capacity Martyrs of Benina Stadium, located just 10 kilometers from Benghazi. However, reports indicate that their chartered ValueJet aircraft was inexplicably diverted to Al Abraq Airport, a smaller facility primarily used for Hajj operations, just as the pilot was preparing to land in Benghazi.

According to the NFF, the Libyan Football Federation failed to arrange any reception or transportation for the delegation, which is reportedly three hours away from their hotel in Benghazi. While the NFF had made separate transportation arrangements for the team, the diversion of the aircraft thwarted those plans.

With players and officials fatigued and frustrated, they have collectively decided not to participate in the match unless their situation is resolved. Meanwhile, NFF officials are working on arrangements to fly the team back to Nigeria.

This incident follows a hard-fought 1-0 victory for Nigeria over Libya in their previous encounter at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, thanks to a late goal by Fisayo Dele-Bashiru. The ongoing standoff at Al Abraq Airport raises serious concerns over the conduct of Libyan authorities and the implications for the upcoming match.