The Nigeria Football Federation has announced the withdrawal of the Super Eagles from their upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya, following a harrowing 12-hour experience at Al Abraq International Airport. After their chartered flight was dangerously rerouted to this small airport—typically used for hajj operations—the team was left stranded without assistance from the Libyan Football Federation.

Despite their efforts to reach Benghazi, three hours away, the delegation found themselves stuck at the airport since their arrival on Sunday afternoon. The NFF reported that the players and officials were frustrated and fatigued after being kept in an abandoned facility without food, drink, or phone service.

Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong expressed outrage over the situation, calling it “disgraceful” and accusing the Libyan authorities of engaging in “mind games.” He also highlighted the struggles of the Tunisian pilot, who, after successfully navigating the diversion, was denied accommodation for his crew under government orders, forcing them to sleep on the plane.

Ultimately, the NFF has supported the players’ decision not to participate in the match and is organizing their return to Nigeria.