CAF responds to Super Eagles' ordeal at Al Abraq International Airport in Libya
14th October 2024
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has acknowledged the challenges faced by Nigeria’s Super Eagles, who were stranded at Al Abraq International Airport in Libya before their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against the host nation.
In a statement released on Monday, CAF stated: "The Confederation of African Football has been in contact with the Libyan and Nigerian authorities after it had been informed that the Nigerian National Football Team (‘’Super Eagles’’) and their technical team were stranded in disturbing conditions for several hours at an airport that they were allegedly instructed to land by the Libyan authorities."
CAF emphasized that it would investigate the situation to ensure accountability.
The statement added, "The matter has been referred to the CAF Disciplinary Board for investigation, and appropriate action will be taken against those who violated the CAF Statutes and Regulations."
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) subsequently withdrew the Super Eagles from Tuesday’s AFCON qualifier against Libya, citing a frustrating 12-hour ordeal at Al Abraq International Airport.
The delegation, traveling to Benghazi for the crucial match, faced unexpected difficulties when their chartered flight was diverted mid-flight to Al Abraq, a smaller airport primarily used for hajj operations.
Upon arrival, the Nigerian team was left stranded, as the Libyan Football Federation failed to arrange any transportation for them, exacerbating the situation and leading to their decision to withdraw from the match.