Benghazi, Libya – In a dramatic turn of events, the Super Eagles of Nigeria were held hostage by Libyan authorities at Al-Abaq Airport on Sunday night, according to reports from The Bureau Newspaper.
The Nigerian national football team, along with their officials, had departed Nigeria earlier in the day, bound for Benghazi for their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier match. However, upon nearing their destination, their chartered flight was unexpectedly diverted to a different city, located more than two hours away from Benghazi, creating serious logistical issues for the team.
Promise Efoghe, the Super Eagles media officer, confirmed the incident, expressing concerns about the situation and highlighting the stress it placed on the players and officials.
The diversion of the Nigerian team followed complaints from Libyan players about the poor treatment they received during their visit to Nigeria last week for the AFCON qualifying matchday three encounter. Despite these tensions, the Super Eagles emerged victorious in that match, with Fisayo Dele-Bashiru scoring the winning goal in the 86th minute to secure a 1-0 victory over Libya.
This latest development adds to the strain between the two teams ahead of their next crucial AFCON qualifier match. The Nigerian football authorities are reportedly working to resolve the situation and ensure the safe arrival of the Super Eagles at their intended destination.