NFF Withdraws Super Eagles From AFCON Qualifier After Ordeal At Libyan Airport

Following a 12-hour ordeal at Al Abraq International Airport, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has withdrawn the Super Eagles from their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Libya, scheduled for Tuesday,

The Nigerian team and officials were held at the small airport, located three hours from Benghazi, where the match was to take place.

Their plane, which was initially headed for Benghazi, was diverted mid-air to Al Abraq without explanation. Upon arrival, the Super Eagles were left stranded without assistance from the Libyan Football Federation, and vehicles arranged by the Nigerian team were denied access to the airport.

With no transport, food, or phone connection, the team was forced to stay at the airport for over 12 hours.

In a statement, the NFF expressed frustration over the situation and announced the team’s withdrawal from the match, citing safety concerns. Captain William Troost-Ekong also confirmed that the players had decided not to play, condemning the treatment and calling for intervention from the Nigerian government.

Plans are now underway to fly the Super Eagles back to Nigeria.