The Super Eagles have threatened to withdraw from their 2025 AFCON qualifier against Libya, remaining stranded at Al Abraq Airport for over 12 hours since arriving in the country.

On Monday, the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) Communications Department confirmed that the Nigerian delegation is still at the airport. A video shared by the Eagles’ media team showed players and officials stuck with their luggage, while Libyan airport staff showed little concern for their situation.

The team had departed for Libya on Sunday morning in preparation for their fourth qualifying match against the Mediterranean Knights. Libya is scheduled to host the three-time African champions at the Martyrs of Benina Stadium, a 10,000-capacity venue located about 10 kilometers from Benghazi. However, reports indicated that their flight was diverted to another city.

“The chartered ValueJet aircraft was unexpectedly and dangerously redirected to a smaller airport just as the pilot was about to land in Benghazi. Al Abraq International Airport is primarily used for hajj operations,” the statement explained.

Exhausted players and officials were left frustrated as the Libyan Football Federation failed to provide any reception team or transportation to their hotel, which is reportedly three hours away in Benghazi. Although the NFF had arranged separate vehicles for the team, those plans fell apart due to the flight diversion.

The statement noted that the players have decided against participating in the match, while NFF officials are working on arrangements to fly the team back home. Previously, Nigeria had secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Libya at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, thanks to a late goal from Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.