Stranded and Disrespected: Nigeria's Super Eagles Face Harrowing Experience in Libya

Nigeria's Super Eagles suffered a shocking ordeal in Libya, stranded at the airport for 24 hours without food or water after their AFCON qualifier match. Read the full story.

The Nigerian Super Eagles, Africa's representatives at the 2022 World Cup, faced a humiliating and disheartening experience in Libya. After securing a crucial 1-0 win in the first leg of the 2025 AFCON qualifier, the team was subjected to inhumane treatment by Libyan authorities.

The Ordeal

Upon arrival in Libya for the second leg, the Super Eagles were stranded at the airport for an astonishing 24 hours. The team, led by captain William Troost-Ekong, was left without access to basic necessities like food and water. This unacceptable treatment sparked widespread outrage and raised concerns about player safety.

Captain Troost-Ekong Speaks Out

Sharing photos of his teammates, including Victor Boniface and Calvin Bassey, Troost-Ekong revealed the team's distressing situation. The images showed players looking weary and exhausted, highlighting the dire conditions they endured.

 

pic.twitter.com/UrMAawFdQb

— William Troost-Ekong (M.O.N) (@WTroostEkong) October 14, 2024

Nigeria Pulls Out of AFCON Qualifier

In response to this treatment, the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) announced the team's withdrawal from the AFCON qualifier against Libya. This decision came after the team was allegedly held hostage by Libyan authorities at the airport for an entire day.

Background

Nigeria had traveled to Libya for the second leg of the 2025 AFCON qualifier, having won the first leg 1-0 at Uyo Stadium courtesy of Fiyaso Dele's 86th-minute goal. The Super Eagles currently top Group D with 7 points, ahead of Benin, Rwanda, and Libya.

The Nigerian Super Eagles' experience in Libya serves as a stark reminder of the challenges African teams face during international competitions. The incident highlights the need for improved player safety, respect, and basic human dignity. As the team returns home, Nigerians and football fans worldwide demand answers and action from Libyan authorities.

Pointers:

• Nigeria's Super Eagles stranded at Libyan airport for 24 hours
• No food or water provided to players
• Team withdraws from AFCON qualifier against Libya
• Nigeria won 1-0 in first leg at Uyo Stadium
• Super Eagles lead Group D with 7 points
• Captain William Troost-Ekong shares photos of teammates' ordeal