…Captain Troost-Ekong hints at possible boycott of match
By Nwosu Collins
The Nigerian national team, Super Eagles, faced a harrowing experience upon arrival in Libya, as they were detained at Abraq Airport for over 10 hours without transportation or basic amenities.
Despite prior arrangements with the Libyan Football Association, the team’s chartered flight was unexpectedly diverted from Benghazi to Abraq Airport, sparking tensions and delays.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) had secured transportation in Benghazi, but the sudden diversion left the team stranded without buses or alternative arrangements.
Super Eagles players took to social media to express their frustration, with striker Victor Boniface tweeting, “Been at the airport for almost 13 hours, no food, no WiFi, no place to sleep. Africa, we can do better.”
Captain William Troost-Ekong condemned the treatment, saying, “This is the worst form of treatment for an international match. Traveling by road in this country is highly dangerous. No hotel is willing to take us in… With this treatment, I don’t think we’re in the best spirit to play tomorrow.”
The team’s safety concerns and lack of accommodation have cast doubts on the scheduled match against Libya’s Mediterranean Knights. The African Football Confederation (CAF) has yet to comment on the situation.