The Super Eagles have been stranded at Al Abraq Airport in Libya for more than 12 hours after landing for their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier, scheduled to be played against Libya.

A statement from the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) on Monday revealed that the team, along with officials and luggage, has been held at the airport with no assistance or reception from the local authorities. A video shared by the Eagles’ media team confirmed the situation, showing players and officials frustrated by the Libyan airport staff’s apparent indifference.

The Super Eagles departed Nigeria on Sunday, ahead of the crucial qualifier match to be played at the 10,000-capacity Martyrs of Benina Stadium, located near Benghazi. However, their plane was diverted mid-flight to a smaller airport in Al Abraq, an airport typically used for Hajj operations.

“The ValueJet aircraft was inexplicably diverted from Benghazi airport during the final approach. As a result, the players, already fatigued from the journey, were left without proper transportation or any welcome from the Libyan Football Federation,” the NFF’s statement read.

It added that the Eagles have refused to proceed with the match, and plans are now being made to fly the team back to Nigeria. The team had previously secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Libya at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo last Friday, thanks to a late goal by Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.