Frank Christian
The African Cup of Nations qualifier match between Nigeria and Libya is now uncertain due to the Super Eagles being stranded overnight at Al Abraq airport, hindering their travel plans.
The Nigerian team was supposed to arrive in Benghazi on Sunday before their qualifier scheduled for Tuesday, but their flight was redirected to Al Abraq, located about 230 kilometers away, with no resolutions in sight.
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has declared that the team will not proceed to Benghazi citing safety concerns. An NFF representative mentioned to BBC Sport Africa that the national team felt “completely abandoned”.
Players, including captain William Troost-Ekong and forward Victor Boniface, reported being without food or water for over 12 hours. NFF media manager Promise Efoghe noted a lack of communication and support from the Libyan football authorities, while Libya’s FA rejected claims of any misconduct.
This raises questions about whether Nigeria will still play against Libya, and if so, when will it happen?
Is the Libya vs. Nigeria match happening?
It appears increasingly unlikely that the match will take place as originally scheduled. On the evening of October 14, the Nigerian team returned to Kano.
In his final remarks shared on X about the situation, Troost-Ekong strongly indicated the team’s decision not to proceed with the game, affirming his earlier statements.
He stated, “I’m looking forward to continuing our journey to AFCON 2025 next month in November the right way,” emphasizing their commitment to Nigerian football.
My last words about this and I look forward to continue our journey to the AFCON 2025 next month in November on the right way.
Our goal of doing the best for Nigerian football won’t ever change.
Now time to chop swallow & rest! pic.twitter.com/7HrO0gNYCO
— William Troost-Ekong (M.O.N) (@WTroostEkong) October 14, 2024
Will the Libya vs. Nigeria match be rescheduled?
As of now, it remains uncertain if the match will happen. Should it not take place, a decision will be needed regarding either postponing the match or forfeiting it, granting Libya the points.
Currently, the game is still listed for Tuesday, October 15 at Martyrs of Benina Stadium in Benina, just 19 kilometers east of Benghazi, with a kickoff planned for 9 p.m. local time (3 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. BST). Given recent events, it is highly doubtful this schedule will be met.
Nigeria previously defeated Libya 1-0 in the earlier match, with Fisayo Dele-Bashiru scoring the winning goal in the 86th minute. This victory positioned the Super Eagles at the top of Group D, and a win on Tuesday would have secured their spot in the AFCON finals.
Current AFCON 2025 Qualifying Group D Standings
| Position | Team | Matches Played | Points | Wins-Draws-Losses | Goal Difference |
| 1. | Nigeria | 3 | 7 | 2-1-0 | 4 |
| 2. | Benin | 3 | 6 | 2-0-1 | 1 |
| 3. | Rwanda | 3 | 2 | 0-2-1 | -3 |
| 4. | Libya | 3 | 1 | 0-1-2 | -2 |
