Nigeria missed their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Libya and are on their way home on Monday, captain William Troost-Ekong announced, having been diverted to an airport far away from the match venue for hours. I protested being left behind.
The Super Eagles are scheduled to face hosts Libya in the city of Benghazi and hope to qualify for the finals in Morocco later next year.
However, Nigeria’s players announced they would not play in the match after being stranded for more than 16 hours at an airport 250 kilometers from their destination.
“As captain and together with the team, I have decided not to take part in this match,” Troost-Ekong told TV show X. “Apparently the plane is being refueled as we speak and should be leaving for Nigeria soon,” he said.
The Nigeria Football Federation announced that the team’s chartered flight was diverted to Al Abraq International Airport as alternative transportation was not provided as it was descending into Benghazi.
Reuters has contacted the Confederation of African Football for comment.
The Libyan Football Federation said the incident was unintentional and asked for Nigeria's understanding.
“We have the utmost respect for our Nigerian colleagues and would like to reassure them that the changes to their flights are not intentional,” he said, adding that routine air traffic protocols, security checks and It added that other logistical issues could cause disruptions.
“We categorically reject any allegations suggesting foul play or sabotage in this situation. We hope that understanding and goodwill will resolve this misunderstanding.”
Nigeria forward Victor Boniface has complained of being stranded at the airport for almost 13 hours without food, Wi-Fi or a place to sleep. “Africa, we can do more,” he said on the X show.
It is unclear what the point of this match will be, and the matter is likely to be referred to the CAF’s disciplinary committee.
Nigeria beat Libya 1-0 on Friday in a come-from-behind clash in Uyo thanks to a late goal from Fisayo Dele-Bashir, taking seven points from three group games.
Benin have six points, Rwanda two and Libya one. The top two teams from each group will advance to the 24-team final.
