The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) announced on Monday that they would be flying the country’s men’s team back home without playing a 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier due to alleged poor treatment. The “Super Eagles” squad was left stranded at an abandoned airport for over 15 hours, following complaints from Libya’s captain about mistreatment during their stay in Nigeria.
What led to the decision?
The team, scheduled to play against Libya in Benghazi for a chance to qualify for the 2025 finals in Morocco, had their plans disrupted when their flight was diverted to Al Abraq airport, 220 kilometers away. NFF officials confirmed the team’s refusal to play, citing safety concerns on a potential three-hour bus journey to the match venue.
Nigeria has filed a formal complaint to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) regarding the incident. Former African footballer Victor Ikpeba supported the team’s boycott and called for tough sanctions against Libya, alleging mistreatment in both legs of the qualifier.
Key Players Involved
Notable members of the Nigerian squad include Ademola Lookman and Victor Boniface. The first leg of the qualifier saw Nigeria win 1-0 amidst accusations of sabotage by the Libya team, which were denied by the NFF.
Media sources: AFP, dpa