In brief
Nigeria's Super Eagles will not play their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya after being stranded overnight due to a flight diversion and facing poor conditions at a Libyan airport. With no clarity or support from Libyan officials, and concerns over safety and hospitality, the team has called on Nigerian authorities for intervention.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles have announced their decision to boycott the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya after enduring a nightmarish travel experience. The team was unexpectedly rerouted to the Al Abraq airport, 230 kilometers away from their intended destination of Benghazi, leaving them stranded overnight without adequate facilities, including food and accommodations.Captain William Troost-Ekong expressed the team's frustration, labeling the situation as "disgraceful behavior" and calling on the Nigerian government for assistance. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) claims their efforts to resolve the situation were thwarted by Libyan authorities, leaving the team feeling "like prisoners" at the airport.The Libyan Football Federation (LFF) has denied any ill-intent, explaining that routine air traffic protocols or logistical challenges could have led to the flight diversion and expressed hope for a resolution. The Confederation of African Football has yet to comment.This incident follows Libya's previous complaints about their treatment in Nigeria, highlighting strained relations between the teams. The Nigerian embassy's inability to act due to Libya's complex political situation further complicates the matter, with the country divided between two rival governments.Libya and Nigeria are at opposite positions in Group D standings, with Nigeria leading and Libya near elimination after Nigeria's 1-0 victory in the first leg of the qualifier. Nonetheless, the Super Eagles' captain insists on not playing under unsafe conditions, emphasizing the need for respect and fairness in international football.
