Nigeria set to boycott AFCON qualifier

by Staff Reporter

Tuesday Oct 15, 2024. 10:00

Nigeria are set to boycott their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier away to Libya on Tuesday evening.

The Super Eagles were set to face the Mediterranean Knights at the Martyrs of February Stadium in Benghazi for a Group D match, having beaten the North African side 1-0 in Uyo last Friday.

However, the travelling delegation was stranded for more than 16 hours at Al Abraq International Airport without food or drink, according to the team’s captain, William Troost-Ekong.

“Let them have the points. Apparently our plane is being fuelled as we speak and we should be leaving to Nigeria shortly. As the team captain together with the team we have decided that we will not play this game,” Troost-Ekong wrote on X.

The charter flight carrying the Super Eagles was set to descend in Benghazi, but was diverted to Al Abraq International Airport. The Libyan Football Federation commented on the incident, saying it was not intentional.

“We firmly reject any claims that suggest foul play or sabotage in this situation. We hope that this misunderstanding can be resolved with understanding and goodwill,” a Libyan Football Federation statement said.

The Nigerian Football Federation filed a complaint to the Confederation of African Football (CAF), protesting against the “inhumane treatment” they received in Libya.

“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,” CAF stated on Monday.

Nigeria tops the group with seven points after three matches, while Libya remains at the bottom of the table with only one point.