"I fear for our lives". Libya vs Nigeria match canceled: Super Eagles heads home
Dillan George
Dailysports's expert
Translated by the editors
The chaos surrounding the 2025 AFCON qualifier between Libya and Nigeria continues to escalate, with shocking new developments emerging.
Details: According to **Pooja Media**, Nigerian players were stranded for an extended period at Al Abraq Airport, where they had landed instead of Benghazi. The Libyan Football Association failed to provide transportation for the Nigerian team to reach their hotel. The players were left without food, Wi-Fi, or any basic amenities. The situation became so dire that some players began to fear for their safety.
Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi even posted a story on Instagram, saying: “This is becoming... I`m scared for our lives.”
For unknown reasons, Libyan authorities refused to grant flight clearance and did not provide aviation fuel for Nigerian-registered planes to depart Libya. The players reportedly had to contact their clubs to arrange private charter flights.
Fortunately, the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) managed to resolve the situation. As of now, the players and coaching staff have boarded a plane and are leaving Libya.
It seems highly likely that the match, scheduled for tomorrow, will be canceled. Libya faces the prospect of a forfeit, which would effectively end their chances of qualifying for AFCON 2025.
Reminder: In their home match, Nigeria defeated Libya 1-0. After three rounds of AFCON 2025 qualification, the "Super Eagles" lead their group with 7 points. If Libya is handed a technical loss, Nigeria will secure early qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations.
