The Nigerian Super Eagles have finally left Libya after enduring over 12 hours of captivity at Al Abraq International Airport.
The team’s nightmare began on Sunday afternoon when their chartered flight was unexpectedly diverted mid-air to this small airport, typically used for hajj operations.
The Super Eagles were en route to Benghazi for a crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya when the diversion occurred. Stranded without any assistance from the Libyan Football Federation, they faced the distressing reality of being left without transportation to their hotel in Benghazi, located three hours away.
In a statement, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed the team’s plight, revealing that they had been at the airport for more than 12 hours.
“The Nigerian delegation for Tuesday’s 2025 AFCON qualifier against Libya is still at Al Abraq Airport, 12 hours after landing,” the NFF stated. “The chartered ValueJet aircraft was dangerously diverted to this small airport just as the pilot was completing his approach to Benghazi Airport.”
Fatigued and frustrated, the players ultimately decided to forgo the match, citing serious concerns for their safety and well-being.
It’s worth noting that the Nigerian team secured a 1:0 victory against Libya in Uyo just last week.
