Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen has expressed his frustration and heartbreak over the poor treatment of the Super Eagles by the authorities of Libya following the team’s arrival for their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifier.
The team, en route to Benghazi for their matchday four encounter, was diverted to another city and left stranded for hours at the Al Abaq Airport, Footballrover reports.
The Super Eagles were scheduled to land in Benghazi for their crucial AFCON qualifying clash.
However, the aircraft carrying the players and officials was diverted without clear reasons.
Upon landing in a different city, the team was left at the airport for over 13 hours, with no access to accommodation or proper facilities.
Efforts by the aircraft crew to find hotel rooms for the team proved futile as the players and officials were met with further delays and frustrations.
The situation has raised serious concerns about the team’s well-being ahead of their vital qualifying match.
Victor Osimhen, who missed the previous match due to injury, was deeply affected by the news and voiced his dismay at the situation.
In a statement, the Galatasaray striker described the incident as an intentional tactic by the Libyan FA to demoralise the Nigerian team.
Super Eagles stranded in Libya as Osimhen demands CAF intervention
Osimhen, speaking on behalf of his teammates, called on the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the Nigerian Government, and relevant authorities to act swiftly and ensure the safe return of the team.
His emotional statement reflected his personal experience with similar mistreatment during his under-17 days, adding weight to his concerns.
“This attempt by Libyan FA is no longer just a delay; it’s an intentional tactic to weaken and ruin the morale of the players, and it’s beginning to look more like a hostage situation.
The safety and well-being of my teammates and all the team staff are the most important things right now. Our captain has said we won’t play the match, and I fully support that, except if the game is taken to a neutral ground.
My brothers and coaches must return home safely; we are not criminals or prisoners. I can imagine how terrible they must feel right now, as I’ve had a similar experience during my under-17 days.
This is totally unfair and heartbreaking. Again, I call on CAF, the Nigerian Government, and other relevant authorities to act swiftly and ensure their safe return.” Osimhen wrote on his Instagram.
The incident has sparked outrage among Nigerian football fans, with calls growing louder for immediate action to protect the team.
The situation remains tense as the Super Eagles await a resolution ahead of their scheduled fixture.
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