Nigeria's national team, Super Eagles, were literally held hostage at the airport upon arrival in Libya ahead of their crucial African Cup of Nations qualifier against the Mediterranean Knights.
Despite previous agreements and approvals, the chartered flight was unexpectedly diverted from Benghazi to Abraq airport, causing unnecessary delays and tensions.
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) had reportedly arranged transportation in Benghazi, but the sudden detour left the team stranded at Abraq airport without buses provided by the Libyan Football Federation.
At the time of writing, the Super Eagles contingent had spent more than five hours locked down at the airport, and NFF officials were forced to seek alternative transportation arrangements.
4 hours after arrival, still at the airport 😪😪
I also have 2 hours left by car to the hotel 😂😂@OgaNlaMedia pic.twitter.com/rBDMOF08B1
– Tanimu Benjamin – BT28 (@TaniBenjamin28) October 13, 2024
Local Libyan authorities claimed to have received directives from higher authorities to delay the Nigerian contingent for more than eight hours, further exacerbating the situation.
The airport doors remained closed and the representatives of the Libyan Federation were conspicuous by their absence, leaving the Nigerian team in limbo.
Revenge?
This comes immediately after Libya captain Faisal Al-Badri accused the NFF of mistreatment during his arrival in Nigeria for the first leg.
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However, the NFF quickly refuted these allegations, citing last-minute changes to arrival plans from Libya, which were communicated just three hours before landing.
The Super Eagles claimed a hard-fought 1-0 victory in the first leg in Uyo and will now face the Mediterranean Knights at the Benina Stadium in the second leg.
crucial game
With AFCON qualification within reach, Nigeria are looking to maintain their hold on the group with seven points, while Libya are struggling to keep their slim hopes alive with just one point from three matches.
The result of the match has significant importance, as a victory for Nigeria could secure qualification for the biennial tournament in Morocco, while a defeat for Libya would effectively end Libya's chances.
READ ALSO: Nigeria 1-0 Libya Player Ratings: Osimhen's absence telling, Eagles must learn to break low block
Despite the Libyans' antics, the Super Eagles are determined to give them football lessons on the field.
One of the players, Tanimu Benjamin, in a post on his X page wrote: “Libya 🇱🇾 a well done 👍
“But we will still get our point across, no matter what we do.”
Tension surrounding Tuesday's match has been heightened by Libya's uncooperative welcome, raising concerns about the host country's intentions and sportsmanship.