Stranded Nigerian players in Libyan airport. Nigeria Sports Platform shared via facebook
(The Post News)- After traveling to Libya for their second Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Nigerian players have been stranded at the airport for more than sixteen hours. They lack food and water. After 85 nervous minutes of Super Eagles vs. Libya in Uyo, Lazio midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru sneaked into the box and beat Murad al Woheshi to score the game-winning goal for the Super Eagles.
The Libyans are keen to get back to their home field when the Super Eagles play them again on Tuesday at Martyrs of February Stadium. However, their thirst for vengeance extends beyond sports.
According to African sources, “a Nigerian chartered flight was diverted to Al-Abraq Airport while it was in the air, with the squad prevented from leaving the airport on its way to Benghazi” . Consequently, the Nigerian athletes have been stranded at the airport for over 16 hours without access to food or beverages.
The Libyan government has left the Super Eagles in Al-Abraq airport, two hours from Benghazi, with no phone connection and the airport gates barred after the Libyans allegedly experienced poor treatment during their trip to Nigeria for the first leg.
On social media, Leverkusen star Boniface stated, “Africa we can do better.” Criticizing the Confederation of African Football for the unjust treatment they are subjected to in Libya.
It is reported that Nigeria and their technical personnel have been informed by some foreigners who have referred to themselves as hostages of the Libyan government that they have halted in order to refuel the aircraft. To observe how they transcend at the Libyan airport, they will have to wait a few hours.
Three-time AFCON champions Nigeria have accumulated seven points in Group D under interim coach Augustin Eguavoen. Rwanda has two, Libya has one, and Benin has six.
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