AFCON 2025Q: Super Eagles pulls out from Libya game ….as CAF probe airport ordeal
The Super Eagles will not play in today’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya, according to the decision made by the Nigeria Football Federation.
This comes after the crew was left stuck at Al Abraq International Airport in Libya for 12 gruelling hours since their arrival on Sunday afternoon.
The Nigerian delegation’s leased aircraft was dangerously diverted to Al Abraq, a small airstrip usually used for hajj activities, mid-flight while they were en route to Benghazi for the pivotal qualifier.
The Libyan Football Federation neglected to provide transport, leaving officials and players stranded in the wake of the unplanned diversion.
The NFF described the chaotic situation in detail in a statement on yesterday, stating that the squad was unable to get to their hotel in Benghazi, which is three hours away, and had been stuck at the airport for more than 12 hours.
The NFF added that the players, who were worn out and angry, had made the decision not to participate in the game.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially responded to the disturbing incident involving the Nigerian national football team, Super Eagles, who were stranded at a Libyan airport under dire conditions.
CAF in an official statement issued yesterday said it has been in contact with both Libyan and Nigerian authorities to address the issue.
The football governing body has referred the matter to its Disciplinary Board for thorough investigations.
The CAF statement highlighted that the Super Eagles and their technical team were stranded in disturbing conditions for several hours at an airport that they were allegedly instructed to land by the Libyan authorities.
“The matter has been referred to the CAF Disciplinary Board for investigation and appropriate action will be taken against those who violated the CAF Statutes and Regulations,” CAF stated
