Nigeria‘s senior men’s football team, the Super Eagles, dey face serious challenges as dem prepare for their second leg match against Libya in the AFCON 2025 qualifiers. After dem win Libya 1-0 for Uyo, Akwa Ibom State on Friday, the two teams suppose meet again for Benina, but things no go as planned.
The Super Eagles leave Nigeria on Sunday afternoon, but their aircraft divert to Al Abraq Airport, which be over two hours away from Benghazi, their original destination. This diversion happen just one hour before dem suppose land in Benghazi.
Videos wey the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) share show players and officials trying to address the situation at the Libyan airport. The team and their officials strand at Al Abraq Airport for several hours without any transport provided by the Libyan Football Federation, leaving dem in confusion and frustration.
Tanimu Benjamin, one of the Super Eagles defenders, express his frustration on social media, saying, “4 hours after arrival, still at the airport. Also, still have 2-hour drive to the hotel.”
The NFF, wey prepare for the team’s arrival in Benghazi, catch off guard by the last-minute diversion. Despite scrambling to make alternative transport arrangements, the Nigerian delegation reportedly lock in at the airport, with local authorities refusing to open the gates for their exit.
This unprofessional behaviour raise concerns about the treatment of the Super Eagles, especially as dem prepare for an important match. The match, wey go hold on Tuesday, October 15, at the Martyrs of Benina Stadium, crucial for both teams as Nigeria aim to secure their place in Morocco 2025, while Libya need a win to keep their hopes alive.
