The Nigeria national football team has announced a boycott of their AFCON qualifier in Libya after being stranded at Al Abraq Airport overnight. Team captain William Troost-Ekong described the event as psychological manipulation, with players suffering from lack of food and connection. Star striker Victor Osimhen expressed concerns about safety. Nigeria’s Minister of Sports announced plans for a formal complaint to be filed against the Libyan Football Federation, reflecting ongoing issues in international football dynamics.
The Nigeria national football team, known as the Super Eagles, announced on Monday their decision to boycott an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match scheduled to take place in Libya after experiencing an overnight ordeal at Al Abraq Airport. Team captain William Troost-Ekong characterized the situation as a form of psychological manipulation orchestrated by their Libyan counterparts. Originally, the Super Eagles were set to land at Benghazi Airport; however, their flight was diverted to Al Abraq, located approximately 220 kilometers from their intended destination, without any clear explanation. Captain Troost-Ekong conveyed his frustrations on social media, stating, “The Libyan government rescinded our approved landing in Benghazi with no reason. They have locked the airport gates and left us without phone connection, food, or drink. All to play mind games.” Photographs shared by team members depicted players resting uncomfortably on airport seats alongside their luggage, with an absence of other travelers in sight. By Monday morning, some players had succumbed to exhaustion and were observed sleeping at the airport. Notably, Victor Osimhen, Nigeria’s star striker who was sidelined due to a muscle injury, criticized the Libyan Football Federation in an Instagram post, suggesting that their tactics were deliberately designed to undermine the morale and well-being of the Nigerian players. He expressed concerns about their safety, stating, “It is beginning to look more like a hostage situation. My brothers and coaches must return home safely. We are not criminals or prisoners.” The Nigerian squad includes prominent players such as Ademola Lookman, who had a stellar performance in the Europa League final, and Victor Boniface of Bayer Leverkusen. Other notable Premier League players include Ola Aina, Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Taiwo Awoniyi, and Wilfred Ndidi, who contributed to Nigeria’s previous victory against Libya. In contrast, the Libyan team, led by their captain Faisal Al-Badri, accused Nigeria of maltreatment during their earlier meeting, with Al-Badri recounting delays they experienced as they were transported to the match venue. In response to the situation, Nigeria’s Minister of Youth and Sports, John Owan Enoh, announced that he would instruct the Nigerian Football Federation to formally file a complaint with the Confederation of African Football (CAF). “This must be on record and thoroughly addressed,” he emphasized in a statement.
The incident highlights the ongoing tensions and challenges faced in international football, particularly within the African context. The Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches often carry significant political and psychological undertones, as countries vie for regional dominance. Stranded teams, accusations of sabotage, and claims of maltreatment have marred previous encounters, leading to diplomatic relations being strained amid sporting encounters. The reported events during the Nigeria versus Libya match further exacerbate the historical grievances and call for greater accountability within the governing bodies of African football.
In summary, the Nigeria national football team’s refusal to participate in their scheduled AFCON match against Libya has escalated from an unfortunate logistical issue to a significant diplomatic incident, characterized by accusations of psychological manipulation. The Super Eagles are calling for improved conditions and treatment for players on the African football stage. This incident underlines the need for continuous dialogue and resolution of conflicts to preserve the integrity of the sport across the continent.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
