‘Naija Spirit can’t be broken’ – Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong fires shot at Libya following chaotic experience
Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has confirmed that the team has returned safely to Nigeria following a harrowing ordeal in Libya. The Nigerian national football team, along with officials from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), endured a frustrating 15-hour ordeal at the Al-Abraq International Airport after their flight was diverted from Benghazi.
The team was scheduled to play the second leg of their 2025 AFCON qualifier against Libya. However, a series of logistical failures by the Libyan Football Federation (LFF) led to the team being stranded without food or water at the airport.
Troost-Ekong took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his relief upon their safe return, saying:
“BACK HOME, SAFE & SOUND. Proud of this team, NAIJA SPIRIT can’t be broken. Throw at us what you want, it’s in our blood to overcome. I’ve seen a lot in my 10 years with this group, but nothing like this. An experience that has brought us even closer TOGETHER.”
Ekong applauded the resilience of his teammates, expressing pride in how the squad handled the adversity. He also hinted that the experience has strengthened their bond and determination.
The Super Eagles’ trouble began when their chartered ValueJet aircraft was diverted to the Al-Abraq International Airport instead of Benghazi, despite having proper landing clearance. Upon arrival, the Nigerian delegation found themselves without transportation or basic amenities, with no officials from the Libyan FA to welcome them.
The team endured several hours of uncertainty, with Libyan authorities providing no food, water, or internet access during their time at the airport. The situation reportedly escalated due to poor communication and hostility from airport security, further compounding the frustration of the players and NFF delegates.
After hours of waiting and failed attempts to coordinate with Libyan officials, the NFF decided to forfeit the match, citing the players’ exhaustion, dehydration, and deteriorating health. The NFF also lodged a formal complaint with the Confederation of African Football (CAF), urging the governing body to investigate the incident and take disciplinary action against the LFF.
The Super Eagles eventually returned to Kano, Nigeria, where they were warmly welcomed. Reports indicate that the team was treated to traditional meals, including fufu and egusi, as part of efforts to boost morale after the ordeal.
The NFF will now await CAF’s verdict on the situation, with hopes that the governing body will address the unfair treatment meted out to the Nigerian delegation. Meanwhile, the Super Eagles will regroup and shift their focus to their upcoming fixtures.
This incident has drawn widespread criticism of the Libyan FA’s handling of the match arrangements, with many calling for CAF to impose sanctions and ensure the safety and dignity of visiting teams in future competitions.
