The Super Eagles have returned to Nigeria after a challenging ordeal in Libya, where they had been scheduled to play the return leg of their African Cup of Nations 2025 Qualifier.
The plane carrying the team landed at Aminu Kano International Airport on Monday evening, ending a frustrating 16-hour delay in Libya.
Initially, the Nigerian squad traveled to Libya for the second leg of their qualifier, but the match was abruptly canceled due to escalating conflict in the North African country.
This left the Nigerian players stranded in Libya for over 16 hours.
After securing a 1-0 victory against Libya in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, last Friday, the Super Eagles were set for the return leg in Benghazi, Libya, scheduled for Tuesday.
The team departed Nigeria on Sunday aboard a chartered flight bound for Benghazi.
However, about an hour before landing, the flight was redirected due to the unstable security situation.
Instead of arriving in Benghazi, the Super Eagles’ flight was diverted to Al Abraq International Airport, an airport primarily used for Hajj operations.
Upon arrival, complications arose as there were no officials from the Libyan Football Federation to facilitate their onward travel. The Nigerian Football Federation quickly arranged for a bus to transport the team to the match venue.
Unfortunately, airport officials refused entry to the chartered bus, preventing the team from continuing their journey.
Frustrated by the series of setbacks, the Super Eagles made the decision to abandon the match and return home.
William Troost-Ekong, the team captain, who had been updating fans on social media throughout the ordeal, confirmed their return by tweeting: “We are finally leaving Libya,” via X.
This harrowing experience in Libya has cast uncertainty over the rescheduled match, and the players’ focus has now shifted to their return home and preparations for future qualifiers.
