It is still not clear whether Nigeria will be awarded three points and three goals following a disrupted 2025 AFCON qualification match against Libya. Logistical problems forced Nigeria’s Super Eagles to abandon the match.
The Super Eagles were scheduled to play the Group D game on Tuesday. Nigeria won 1-0 when the teams played on Friday, when similar accusations of sabotage from the Libya team came after they were delayed at a Nigerian airport.
Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong said the plane was due to land at Benghazi Airport but was diverted at the last minute to Al Abraq some 220 kilometers away.
The Nigerian team spent over 12 hours at the airport with no food or communication. Captain William Troost-Ekong called it a “mind game,” highlighting the poor conditions they faced. The Tunisian pilot confirmed the diversion came from Libyan authorities, not from flight plans. NFF filed a complaint with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over Libya’s “hostile attitude.” The Libyan Football Federation denied any intent, citing logistical issues.
“The Libyan government rescinded our approved landing in Benghazi with no reason,” Troost-Ekong said on X. “They’ve locked the airport gates and left us without phone connection, food or drink. All to play mind games. As the captain, together with the team, we have decided that we will not play this game.”
Though authorities in Libya denied it was sabotage, the Confederation of African Football which organizes the competition said it will investigate the “disturbing and unacceptable experiences” of Nigeria.
CAF is now investigating. Preliminary reports suggest Nigeria will win the match by forfeit. Libya may face a three-match home ban and a fine.
