Stranded Nigeria squad boycotts Libya Africa Cup of Nations qualification

Nigeria has dropped out of their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Libya and will return home on Monday, according to captain William Troost-Ekong, in protest of being rerouted and abandoned for hours at an airport far from the match venue. The Super Eagles are scheduled to play hosts Libya in Benghazi, where they want to secure a qualification spot for the championships in Morocco late next year. However, after being stuck for more than 16 hours at an airport 250 kilometres (155 miles) from their original location, the Nigerian players announced they would not play the match. “As captain, together with the team, we have decided that we will not play this game,” Troost-Ekong stated. “Apparently, our the jet is being fueled as we speak, and we should be heading for Nigeria shortly.

The Nigeria Football Federation stated that as the team’s charter flight approached Benghazi, it was rerouted to Al Abraq International Airport with no alternative transportation available. Reuters has contacted the Confederation of African Football for comment.

The Libyan Football Federation stated that the incident was not premeditated and encouraged Nigeria to be understanding. “We have the utmost respect for our Nigerian counterparts and want to reassure them that the diversion of their flight was not intentional,” the statement read, adding that diversions can occur due to standard air traffic protocols, security checks, or other logistical problems. “We categorically refute any charges of foul play or sabotage in this circumstance. We hope that this misunderstanding can be resolved through mutual understanding and goodwill.” Nigeria striker Victor Boniface said that he had been held at the airport for nearly 13 hours without food, WiFi, or a place to sleep. “Africa, we can do better,” he stated on X.

It is unknown what will happen to the game’s points, as the subject is likely to be sent to the CAF’s Disciplinary Board. Nigeria defeated Libya 1-0 in the reverse encounter in Uyo on Friday, thanks to a late goal by Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, giving them seven points from three games in their group.

Benin has six points, Rwanda two, and Libya one. The top two teams from each group will progress to the 24-team finals.