Victor Boniface, Nigerian forward and key player of the Super Eagles, has finally spoken out about the team’s ordeal after being stranded at Al Abraq International Airport in Libya for more than 12 hours. The delay occurred on Sunday as the Super Eagles arrived in the country for their crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Libya.
In a statement, Boniface expressed the team’s frustration, highlighting the impact the delay has had on their preparation for the match. According to Boniface, the prolonged stay at the airport was both physically and mentally draining, leaving the players exhausted and uncertain about their next steps.
“We’ve been here for over 12 hours with no explanation or proper arrangements. It’s a terrible situation, and it’s affecting our morale and focus for the game,” Boniface remarked.
The forward emphasized that the team arrived in Libya ready to compete, but the unexpected delay has caused significant disruption to their plans. Despite the setback, Boniface reassured fans that the team remains committed to doing their best in the upcoming match.
Boniface’s statement also called on football authorities, including the Confederation of African Football (CAF), to address the situation and ensure better treatment for teams competing in international tournaments. The delay has sparked concerns over the handling of logistics for visiting teams and the potential impact on performance.
Nigerian football fans have voiced their support for the Super Eagles, urging the relevant authorities to step in and resolve the issue. Many expressed frustration over the lack of adequate preparation and care for the team, especially ahead of such an important fixture.
Despite the ordeal, Boniface encouraged his teammates to remain focused on the task at hand, emphasizing the importance of the match for Nigeria’s AFCON qualification campaign. With the Super Eagles considered strong contenders, the team’s performance in the upcoming qualifier is crucial for securing their place in the 2025 AFCON tournament.
As the team moves forward, the focus will be on recovering from the airport delay and preparing for the match against Libya. Fans are hopeful that the Super Eagles can overcome this setback and deliver a strong performance on the pitch.