…Libyan FF Denies Foul Play
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has announced that the Super Eagles will not participate in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Libya, following a chaotic experience at Al Abraq Airport.
The Nigerian team was stranded for over 12 hours after being unexpectedly diverted from Benghazi to the smaller airport, primarily used for Hajj operations.
Upon arrival, there was no reception from the Libyan Football Federation, and no transport was arranged to take the team to their accommodation, which was reportedly three hours away in Benghazi.
The situation left the players and officials fatigued and disorganized, prompting the decision to withdraw from the match.
In a statement, the NFF explained that the team’s chartered ValueJet aircraft was diverted to Al Abraq International Airport just as the pilot was about to land in Benghazi.
The diversion caused further delays, and despite NFF’s efforts to arrange alternative transport, the plan fell through due to the disorganized circumstances.
The decision comes shortly after Nigeria’s 1-0 victory over Libya in Uyo, where Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s late goal secured a win for the Super Eagles.
NFF officials are now arranging the team’s return to Nigeria.
Meanwhile, the Libyan Football Federation (Libyan FF) has addressed concerns regarding the recent diversion of the Nigerian national team’s flight ahead of their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier in Libya.
In an official statement, the Federation expressed regret for any inconvenience caused but strongly denied allegations of foul play or deliberate mishandling of the situation.
The Libyan FF explained that the diversion was likely due to routine air traffic control protocols, security checks, or logistical challenges, which they described as “standard procedures at airports worldwide.”
The Federation emphasized its respect for Nigeria’s team and assured the public that the incident was not intentional.
Rejecting any claims of sabotage by Libyan officials or security personnel, the statement also noted that Libya’s national team faced similar challenges during their recent visit to Nigeria for the AFCON qualification match.
“Football unites nations, and we are committed to upholding fairness and mutual respect,” the Libyan FF said, reinforcing their commitment to hospitality and treating all visiting teams with dignity.
The Federation called for understanding and goodwill, stressing the importance of unity, sportsmanship, and friendship in the game of football.
