AFCON Qualifier: Nigeria Sports Minister Blocks Eagles-Libya Match

Enoh Says No to CAF

“This morning, I was on a conference call with CAF President and CAF Secretary General...”

Nigeria's Super Eagles abandon AFCON qualifier against Libya after airport ordeal, prioritizing safety over competition.

Nigeria's Sports Minister, John Enoh, has prioritized the safety and welfare of the Super Eagles over pressure from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to proceed with the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya. The team faced a harrowing experience, stranded at Al Abraq Airport in Libya for over 15 hours, sparking widespread outrage.

Enoh stood firm despite CAF's urging, stating, “This morning, I was on a conference call with CAF President and CAF Secretary General. While the CAF President's concern seems to be what to do to get the national team to participate in tomorrow's match, I have instead informed CAF that the concern of the Government and people of Nigeria is first, the safety of the team and their safe return.”

Super Eagles Captain William Troost-Ekong took to social media to share the team's ordeal, criticizing both the Libyan government and CAF. Meanwhile, Victor Osimhen, currently on loan at Galatasaray, expressed solidarity with his teammates and called on CAF to take immediate action.

“Actions like this go against the spirit of sportsmanship. My support is with my team, and I know they'll stay strong despite these obstacles. I call on CAF and other football bodies to intervene, as my teammates and officials are still stranded at the airport in Libya. This is uncalled for and inhumane.”

Osimhen emphasised safety concerns, stating, “The safety and well-being of my teammates and all the team staff are the most important things right now. Our captain has said we won't play the match, and I fully support that, except if the game is taken to a neutral ground.”

Ahmed Musa adds voice to Super Eagles' plight, demands CAF investigation.

Musa, on his X page, stated, “I'm extremely disappointed by the unjust treatment of the Super Eagles, the NFF officials, as well as dignitaries in Libya. This is not sportsmanship, and I want the football governing body, @CAF_Online to intervene and investigate this incident.”

The Super Eagles boarded their chartered plane and returned to Nigeria, abandoning the qualifier. They currently top of Group D with seven points after beating Libya 1-0 at home just days prior.

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