Super Eagles Abandon AFCON Qualifier, Returning Home After 12-Hour Ordeal at Libyan Airport

Nigeria’s national team halts preparations for Libya match following major travel disruption by the Libyan authorities.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have been stranded for over 12 hours at Al Abraq Airport, following a surprising diversion of their chartered ValueJet aircraft ahead of Tuesday’s 2025 AFCON qualifier against Libya. The Nigerian delegation, which had been en route to Benghazi, was suddenly diverted to Al Abraq International Airport, a small facility typically used for Hajj operations, just as the plane was nearing its destination.

Upon arrival, the team was met with confusion and fatigue as the Libyan Football Federation failed to provide any reception or transportation. The stranded Nigerian players and officials have been left without a way to reach their hotel, which is located three hours away in Benghazi.

The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) had initially arranged vehicles for the team’s transfer, but the unplanned diversion thwarted those efforts. Frustrated and fatigued, players have reportedly resolved not to play the match, while NFF officials are making plans to fly the team back home.

This incident raises concerns about the safety and organization surrounding international football matches, with the Super Eagles now facing uncertainty about their participation in the crucial AFCON qualifier.

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