By : Lloyd Mahachi
Nigeria’s national soccer team, the Super Eagles, faced a harrowing experience on Monday after being stranded overnight at Al Abraq Airport in Libya. The team was slated to play a pivotal Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Libya on Tuesday. However, the players announced a boycott due to alleged “mind games” by Libyan authorities.
According to team captain William Troost-Ekong, the plane carrying the team was diverted from its approved landing destination, Benghazi Airport, to Al Abraq Airport, approximately 220 kilometers away. The Libyan government reportedly rescinded the approved landing without providing a reason. This sudden change left the team in a precarious situation.
Troost-Ekong expressed frustration, stating, “They’ve locked the airport gates and left us without phone connection, food or drink.” The team captain announced that the players have collectively decided not to participate in the match, citing concerns for their safety and well-being.
Star striker Victor Osimhen, currently injured and not part of the squad, condemned the treatment of his teammates on Instagram. He labeled it an “intentional tactic to weaken and ruin the morale” of the Nigerian players. Osimhen’s sentiments were echoed by fans and supporters worldwide.
The Libyan Football Federation issued a statement regretting the flight diversion, attributing it to routine air traffic control protocols, security checks, or logistical challenges. However, the Nigerian team remains skeptical, and their decision to boycott the match has cast doubt on the qualifier.
This incident follows allegations of sabotage from the Libyan team during the first leg of the qualifier, which Nigeria won 1-0 on Friday. The Libyan team claimed they were delayed and subjected to searches before being transported to the match venue.
Nigeria’s sports minister, John Owan Enoh, instructed the soccer federation to file a formal complaint with the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Enoh emphasized the need for reciprocity, stating, “This must be on record and thoroughly addressed.”
The Nigerian squad features prominent players, including Ademola Lookman, Victor Boniface, Ola Aina, Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Taiwo Awoniyi, and Wilfred Ndidi. The team’s safety and well-being remain a top priority as the situation continues to unfold.
This controversy has sparked concerns about the fairness and safety of international soccer competitions. The incident may have far-reaching implications for future matches and tournaments.
Nigeria’s soccer team stranded in Libya has garnered significant attention globally. Key facts surrounding the incident include the team’s diversion to Al Abraq Airport, the boycott of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match, and the Libyan Football Federation’s denial of sabotage.
Recent developments have seen the Confederation of African Football (CAF) announce an emergency meeting to address the situation. The Nigerian government has demanded a formal apology from Libya, and international soccer organizations have called for an investigation into the allegations.
The international community awaits the outcome of these developments, hoping for a swift resolution that prioritizes the safety and well-being of the Nigerian soccer team.
Editor : Josephine Mahachi
