An unforgettable and shocking experience unfolded for the Super Eagles on Sunday afternoon. The team, en route to Libya for their 2025 AFCON qualifying clash, found themselves diverted to the Al Abraq Airport—over 200 km instead of International Airport in Benghazi.

What should have been a routine trip turned into a nightmare, as the team and officials were held hostage by Libyan authorities from Sunday to Monday. The Nigerian squad in Libya to face the Mediterranean Knights on Tuesday was stranded for over 20 hours without food, water, or internet access, resulting in fatigue and frustration for all involved.

“This is unacceptable,” said a visibly exhausted Moses Simon. “Super Eagles weathering the situation in Libya as we are held hostage.”

Troost-Ekong said: “12+ hours in an abandoned airport in Libya after our plane was diverted whilst descending. The Libyan government rescinded our approved landing in Benghazi with no reason.”

Victor Boniface echoed the growing frustration on twitter: “Been at the airport for almost 13 hours of no food, no WiFi, nowhere to sleep. Africa we can do better. This is getting scary now. You guys can have the point; we just want to return home to our country.”

Victor Osimhen, also voiced his disappointment on social media, condemning the treatment of his teammates: “I am disappointed by the unfair treatment brothers and coaches faced at the Libyan airport last night. Actions like this go against the spirit of sportsmanship. My support is with my team, and I know they will stay strong despite these obstacles.”

Rumors began swirling that Libya’s actions were a retaliation for a similar incident when their team reportedly faced poor treatment in Nigeria. However, no official statement was made to confirm this claim.

After the ordeal and following intervention from the Nigerian government, the team booked a flight back home on October 15, 2024, withdrawing from the AFCON qualifying round. There was relief and celebration as the Super Eagles safely returned, stopping in Kano to refuel before their final arrival in Abuja.

In response to the incident, Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered a full investigation into the circumstances that led to the Super Eagles’ maltreatment at the Libyan airport.