The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is urging Nigeria’s Super Eagles to continue with their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Libya in Benghazi, despite escalating safety concerns after a series of distressing events left the team stranded. This development has sparked significant backlash and concern from both the players and Nigerian officials.
The Super Eagles were en route to Libya for their crucial fixture but encountered trouble when their flight was unexpectedly diverted to Al Abraq, a small airport primarily used for Hajj operations. The diversion left the team without immediate assistance from Libyan authorities, compounding their difficulties. To make matters worse, the Libyan Football Federation failed to provide adequate transport to Benghazi, leaving the Super Eagles in a precarious situation. Minimal support was offered, with the team only receiving internet access and essential supplies by early Monday morning.
In light of what they described as “threats to life and hostilities” in the host country, the players, led by captain William Troost-Ekong, collectively decided to withdraw from the match. Troost-Ekong stated, “The players made this resolution because of the threat to their lives and hostilities of the host country since they landed.”
Nigeria’s Sports Minister, John Owan Enoh, confirmed on Monday that CAF President Patrice Motsepe and Secretary General Veron Mosengo-Omba had implored Nigeria to proceed with the match. However, Minister Enoh firmly rejected their request.
In a statement, Senator Enoh explained, “This morning, I was on a conference call with CAF President and CAF Secretary General. While the CAF President’s concern seems to be about getting the national team to participate in tomorrow’s match, I have instead informed CAF that the concern of the Government and people of Nigeria is first, the safety of the team and their safe return, urging that CAF should focus on working with us to achieve this.”
He further emphasized the need for consequences for the Libyan Football Federation due to their lack of support and urged that Nigeria should not be compelled to participate in the match under the current circumstances.
As it stands, Nigeria leads Group D with seven points from three games, while Libya sits at the bottom with just one point. The situation continues to evolve as both the Nigerian government and CAF navigate the complex dynamics of player safety and tournament obligations.
