CAF Urges Nigeria to Play AFCON Qualifier in Libya Despite Safety Concerns
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CAF Urges Nigeria to Play AFCON Qualifier in Libya Despite Safety Concerns
Super Eagles Stranded in Libya Amid Travel Chaos and Security Issues
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has urged Nigeria to proceed with their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Libya in Benghazi, despite mounting safety concerns and logistical challenges that have left the Super Eagles stranded.
Mid-Air Flight Diversion Leaves Nigerian Team Stranded
The Nigerian national football team was en route to Benghazi for Tuesday’s crucial Group D fixture when their flight was unexpectedly diverted to Al Abraq Airport, a small regional facility typically used for hajj operations. The diversion disrupted their travel plans, leaving the team without immediate support from local authorities or the Libyan Football Federation.
Adding to the chaos, the Libyan Federation failed to provide transportation to Benghazi, further complicating the Nigerian contingent’s efforts to reach the match venue. Without meaningful assistance, the stranded players only gained access to basic supplies and internet connectivity early Monday morning.
Super Eagles Withdraw Over Security Concerns
In response to the precarious situation, the Super Eagles, led by captain William Troost-Ekong, made the decision to withdraw from the match. Troost-Ekong emphasized that the decision was driven by concerns for the players’ safety.
“The players made this resolution because of the threat to their lives and hostilities of the host country since they landed,” Troost-Ekong said.
Nigeria Rejects CAF’s Plea to Continue Match
Nigeria’s Sports Minister, John Owan Enoh, confirmed on Monday that CAF President Patrice Motsepe and Secretary-General Veron Mosengo-Omba had urged Nigeria to proceed with the match. However, Enoh firmly rejected the request, prioritizing the safety of the team over the competition.
“This morning, I was on a conference call with the CAF President and Secretary-General,” Enoh explained. “While their concern seems to be focused on ensuring Nigeria’s participation in tomorrow’s match, I made it clear that the priority of the Nigerian government is the safety and safe return of the team.”
Enoh also criticized the Libyan Football Federation’s handling of the situation, calling for consequences.
“There must be serious repercussions for the Libyan federation for this unspeakable behavior. It is unacceptable to insist on playing under such conditions.”
Impact on Group D Standings
Despite the turmoil, Nigeria currently tops Group D with seven points from three matches, while Libya sits at the bottom with just one point. Whether the match will be rescheduled or awarded to Nigeria by forfeit remains uncertain.
This incident raises fresh questions about the safety and organization of international fixtures in conflict-prone areas, putting pressure on CAF to reconsider match venues in the future.
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