Libya's Unsporting Conduct: Super Eagles Held Hostage Amidst AFCON Qualifier Controversy"(VIDEO)

_"Libya's Unsporting Conduct: Super Eagles Held Hostage Amidst AFCON Qualifier Controversy"_

In a shocking display of unprofessionalism, Libyan football authorities have sparked outrage by holding the Super Eagles of Nigeria and their officials hostage upon arrival in Libya for the 2025 AFCON qualifiers. This disturbing incident has raised concerns about player safety, fair play, and the integrity of the competition.

The controversy unfolded on October 13, when the Nigerian team flew to Libya on a chartered flight, only to be diverted from their intended destination of Benghazi to Al Abaq airport, over two hours away. The team was reportedly held for approximately an hour, sparking fears about their well-being and safety.

"This was a clear breach of protocol and an unacceptable treatment of our team," said a Nigerian football official, who wished to remain anonymous. "We are concerned about the safety of our players and officials, and we demand a thorough investigation into this incident."

This incident comes on the heels of Libya's contentious visit to Nigeria for the matchday three of the 2025 AFCON qualifiers. Libyan officials had complained about the treatment they received in Nigeria, citing inadequate accommodations and poor transportation. However, Nigerian football authorities disputed these claims, stating that they had provided the required amenities.

During the game, the Mediterranean Knights employed time-wasting tactics, frustrating Super Eagles players in an attempt to secure a draw. However, Nigeria's persistence paid off, as they scored in the last ten minutes to secure a 1-0 victory.

The Super Eagles media team condemned the diversion, stating, "About an hour to landing, the Nigerian aircraft approaching its destination, Benghazi, was diverted to another city more than a two-hour drive from the original destination. This is unacceptable and has caused unnecessary stress and inconvenience to our team."

The 2025 AFCON qualifiers between Nigeria and Libya are scheduled to take place at the 10,000-capacity stadium in Benina, featuring an artificial turf, on Tuesday, October 15, at 8 p.m. Libya, currently bottom-placed in Group D, faces a must-win situation to remain in contention for qualification.

Nigerian football authorities have yet to comment on the incident, but concerns about player safety and the integrity of the competition are growing. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has been alerted to the situation and is expected to take swift action.

CAF President, Patrice Motsepe, stated, "We take incidents of this nature very seriously and will investigate thoroughly. The safety and well-being of our players and officials are paramount."

This unacceptable behavior by Libyan football authorities has cast a shadow over the upcoming match and raised questions about the country's ability to host international competitions.

As tensions escalate, football fans and officials alike await a resolution to this contentious situation, emphasizing the need for fair play, respect, and safety in international football.

_Video footage of the incident has surfaced, showing the Super Eagles players and officials being held at the airport._

The Nigerian government has also weighed in on the issue, with the Minister of Sports, Sunday Dare, stating, "We will not tolerate any harm or disrespect to our citizens, including our football team. We demand an apology and assurance of safety from the Libyan authorities."

The international football community is watching closely, with many calling for swift action against Libya. "This incident is a stain on African football," said FIFA President, Gianni Infantino. "We will support CAF in their investigation and ensure that those responsible are held accountable."

As the situation unfolds, one thing is clear: the safety and well-being of players and officials must be the top priority in international football.