- Nigeria has withdrawn from their qualifier against Libya in protest after being stranded for over 16 hours.
- The team was diverted to Al Abraq Airport, far from their intended destination in Benghazi.
- Captain William Troost-Ekong confirmed the decision, with the team heading back to Nigeria.
- The Libyan Football Federation claimed the diversion was not intentional and urged understanding.
- The future of the match points is unclear, and the matter may be referred to CAF’s Disciplinary Board.
Nigeria has withdrawn from their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya, with captain William Troost-Ekong announcing the team’s decision on Monday. This protest follows the Super Eagles being diverted and stranded for over 16 hours at an airport 250 km (155 miles) from their intended match venue in Benghazi.
The team was scheduled to face Libya on Tuesday, hoping to secure a qualification berth for the finals in Morocco next year. However, after the lengthy wait at Al Abraq International Airport, the players expressed their refusal to participate in the fixture. Troost-Ekong stated on social media, “As the captain, together with the team, we have decided that we will not play this game. Apparently, our plane is being fueled as we speak, and we should be leaving to Nigeria shortly.”
The Nigeria Football Federation reported that the team’s charter flight was unexpectedly diverted to Al Abraq International Airport during its descent to Benghazi, with no alternative transport provided. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has been approached for comment on the situation.
The Libyan Football Federation responded to the incident, asserting that the diversion was not intentional and urged Nigeria to understand the circumstances. They emphasized that such disruptions can arise from routine air traffic protocols, security checks, or logistical challenges. “We firmly reject any claims that suggest foul play or sabotage in this situation. We hope that this misunderstanding can be resolved with understanding and goodwill,” they stated.
Nigerian striker Victor Boniface voiced frustration over the conditions, having been stuck at the airport for nearly 13 hours without food, WiFi, or a place to rest. “Africa, we can do better,” he remarked on social media.
The future of the points from this match remains uncertain, as the issue may be referred to CAF’s Disciplinary Board. Nigeria had previously secured a 1-0 victory against Libya in the reverse fixture in Uyo, thanks to a late goal from Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, bringing their total to seven points from three games in the group. Currently, Benin holds six points, Rwanda has two, and Libya has one. The top two teams in each group will advance to the 24-team finals.
