SHALOM OLALEYE
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has pulled the Super Eagles out of their scheduled Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Libya, set for Tuesday.
This decision follows a 13 hour ordeal at Al-Abraq Airport, where the team was stranded after Libyan authorities blocked their entry into the country despite prior clearance to land in Benghazi.
The airport gates were locked, leaving the Super Eagles without food, water, or communication during the entire delay.
After consultations with the team’s medical staff and players, the NFF decided to withdraw from the match, prioritizing the health and well-being of the players. Team captain William Troost-Ekong confirmed that both players and coaching staff unanimously agreed not to proceed.
In light of the situation, the NFF has arranged for the team’s immediate return to Nigeria. While expressing disappointment over the tense circumstances, the federation emphasized that the safety of the Super Eagles remains their top priority.