At their AFCON 2025 qualifier in Libya, the Nigerian Super Eagles encountered an unanticipated nightmare. After their flight was rerouted from Benghazi to Al Abraq, a smaller airport, the team was left stuck for over 12 hours without food, Wi-Fi, or a place to sleep.
Nigerian forward Victor Boniface vented his fury on social media, calling the experience “torture.” Since there were no Libyan Football Federation representatives present to welcome them or arrange for transportation, the team was left without a formal reception. Nigerian officials and the players were both worn out and frustrated by this.
https://twitter.com/boniface_jrn/status/1845699756925849828?t=5T_HxvZVCFmfzFKyY0FwLg&s=19
The team’s captain, William Troost-Ekong, described the state of affairs as “disgraceful” and expressed disappointment for African football. Because of the bad treatment, the players chose to skip the game, and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is currently working to get the team back home.
https://twitter.com/WTroostEkong/status/1845716878016025057?t=Azfy7t4qz9jzS9HlEvHcaA&s=19
Better organizational standards are required in light of this episode, which has spurred discussions concerning the treatment of African football teams in international competitions.
