The Super Eagles of Nigeria have found themselves in an unprecedented and challenging situation after arriving in Libya for their AFCON 2023 qualifier scheduled for Tuesday, October 15, 2024.
The team, which landed at the Al Abraq International Airport, remains stranded 12 hours later, with no reception from the host Libyan Football Federation (LFF).
The ValueJet aircraft, initially scheduled to land at Benghazi, was diverted mid-approach to Al Abraq, an airport typically reserved for hajj operations.
Players and officials are grappling with fatigue and frustration as there has been no transportation provided to take them to their hotel, which is located three hours away in Benghazi.
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) had earlier made logistical arrangements for the team’s transportation, but these were upended by the unexpected diversion.
With hours ticking by and no solution in sight, the Super Eagles have resolved not to play the match under such trying circumstances.
The NFF is currently exploring alternative plans, including the possibility of flying the team back to Nigeria.
The situation has raised serious concerns about the safety and organization surrounding the match, casting doubt on whether it will proceed as scheduled.
This unfortunate incident highlights the importance of proper coordination and planning in international football fixtures.
