In a shocking twist ahead of their AFCON 2025 qualifier, Nigeria’s Super Eagles have reportedly been stranded in Libya under tense circumstances. The senior men’s football team was set to face Libya in Benina for the second leg of their Group D encounter, but their journey took an unexpected and frustrating turn.
The drama began after Nigeria secured a 1-0 victory over Libya in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, in their first encounter. With the rematch scheduled in Libya, the Super Eagles departed Nigeria on Sunday, but their trip quickly became a logistical nightmare.
According to the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), as the team’s flight was just an hour away from Benghazi—the match venue—the aircraft was suddenly diverted to Al Abraq, a city over two hours away from their intended destination. This unplanned detour set the stage for further chaos.
Upon landing at Al Abraq airport, the Super Eagles were left stranded. Libyan authorities reportedly failed to provide transportation for the team to reach Benghazi, forcing the NFF to scramble for alternative travel arrangements. To make matters worse, these efforts were allegedly thwarted by Libyan officials, who reportedly locked the airport gate, leaving the players and officials stuck without access to proper transportation.
The situation has raised suspicions of foul play. “It’s a tactic to frustrate the boys and wear them out before the game,” a source within the Super Eagles camp revealed. “They want to make it hard for the team to properly prepare for the match.”
Despite the difficulties, the Super Eagles remain top of Group D with seven points, ahead of Benin Republic with six, Rwanda with two, and Libya trailing at the bottom with just one point.
With such a chaotic lead-up to the match, fans and analysts alike are left wondering how the Super Eagles will fare in the crucial return fixture. Will the Nigerian team be able to rise above the adversity and maintain their top spot? Or will the tactics employed by the Libyan authorities take a toll?
One thing is for sure—this AFCON 2025 qualifier has already provided plenty of drama, both on and off the pitch.
Pingback: CAF Investigates Super Eagles’ Struggles in Libya, Promises Action - culbeed
Pingback: Super Eagles Back in Nigeria After Libya Airport Ordeal: Unbroken Naija Spirit Shines Through” - culbeed
Afolabi Ajayi
October 14, 2024 at 7:11 pm
Our Nigerian Diplomats at Lybia didnt do a good job. A plan B should always be planned ahead.