Super Eagles Stranded, Starved, and Frustrated in Libya Airport Ahead of AFCON Qualifier

The Super Eagles of Nigeria, preparing for the second leg of their AFCON 2025 qualifier against Libya, found themselves stranded in a Libyan airport for over 16 hours, facing a series of frustrations and a lack of basic necessities. This ordeal, which unfolded on Sunday, October 13, has raised concerns about the host nation’s preparedness and potential attempts to undermine the Nigerian team’s performance.

Following their 1-0 victory over Libya in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State on Friday, October 11, the Super Eagles were scheduled to travel to Benghazi, Libya for the return match. However, their chartered flight, en route to Benghazi, was unexpectedly diverted to Al Abraq, a city over two hours away from their intended destination.

The Libyan authorities failed to provide transportation for the Super Eagles to reach Benghazi, leaving the team stranded at the Al Abraq airport. The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), facing frustration from their hosts, were forced to scramble for alternative transportation plans.

Adding insult to injury, the Super Eagles were left without food, water, or access to Wi-Fi for over 13 hours. This lack of basic necessities, coupled with the frustration of the unexpected diversion, highlighted a lack of hospitality and potential attempts to sabotage the Nigerian team’s preparation.

Super Eagles forward Victor Boniface took to social media to express his frustration, lamenting the poor treatment and lack of basic necessities, highlighting the harsh reality the team was facing: “Been at the airport for almost 13 hours no food no wifi no where to sleep… African we can do better.”

This incident has sparked outrage among Nigerian fans and officials, with many accusing Libyan authorities of deliberately attempting to disrupt the Super Eagles’ preparations ahead of the crucial qualifier match. The incident has also highlighted a broader issue of lack of infrastructure and hospitality in some African countries, raising concerns about the preparation and conditions for athletes competing in international tournaments.

The NFF, with the support of the Nigerian government, is expected to press for accountability and ensure that this incident is not repeated. This experience, however, underscores the need for a stronger commitment to ensuring fair and hospitable conditions for athletes competing in international competitions.