In brief
Nigeria’s football team, the Super Eagles, has decided to boycott their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya following an unexpected ordeal at Al Abraq airport. The team, originally set to touch down in Benghazi, found their flight diverted, leaving them stranded overnight in subpar conditions. Describing the incident as “mind games,” team captain William Troost-Ekong called for government intervention, citing mistreatment reminiscent of past away-game experiences. The Libyan Football Federation (LFF) expressed regret over the incident but denied any intentional misconduct. They attributed the situation to routine logistical hiccups, urging for a resolution founded on mutual understanding. Meanwhile, Nigeria recalled Libya’s gripes from their prior visit, which were dismissed by the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF). With security concerns paramount, Troost-Ekong affirmed the players' unanimous decision to forgo the match given the widespread civil instability in Libya. Both nations engaged earlier in Uyo, where Nigeria emerged victorious with a 1-0 scoreline. The diplomatic tussle now hangs over their next potential encounter.
Nigeria Boycotts Afcon Qualifier Due to Airport StrandingSuper Eagles stranded in Libya vow not to play amid diplomatic tensions.Nigeria’s football team, the Super Eagles, has decided to boycott their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya following an unexpected ordeal at Al Abraq airport. The team, originally set to touch down in Benghazi, found their flight diverted, leaving them stranded overnight in subpar conditions. Describing the incident as “mind games,” team captain William Troost-Ekong called for government intervention, citing mistreatment reminiscent of past away-game experiences. The Libyan Football Federation (LFF) expressed regret over the incident but denied any intentional misconduct. They attributed the situation to routine logistical hiccups, urging for a resolution founded on mutual understanding. Meanwhile, Nigeria recalled Libya’s gripes from their prior visit, which were dismissed by the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF). With security concerns paramount, Troost-Ekong affirmed the players' unanimous decision to forgo the match given the widespread civil instability in Libya. Both nations engaged earlier in Uyo, where Nigeria emerged victorious with a 1-0 scoreline. The diplomatic tussle now hangs over their next potential encounter.
