The Super Eagles smoothly returned to Nigeria after their 1-1 draw with Benin Republic in their penultimate 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier, Soccernet.ng reports.
The match, held at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan on Thursday, saw Victor Osimhen’s late header secure a point for the three-time African champions after Mohamed Tijani’s early goal for Benin.
The Nigerian delegation, including players and officials, departed Côte d’Ivoire on Friday aboard a chartered Value Jet aircraft.
The team landed safely at the Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, ahead of their final group match against Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
This trip marks a stark contrast to the chaos the Super Eagles endured during October’s international break in Libya.
The team faced harrowing conditions, including being stranded at an abandoned airport without food, water, or internet access.
The Nigerian side ultimately refused to play their match against the Mediterranean Knights, only leaving Libya after intervention from the Nigerian government.
The Confederation of African Football ruled in Nigeria’s favour, awarding the Super Eagles three points and three goals while penalizing the Libyan Football Federation for protocol breaches.
With qualification for AFCON 2025 already secured, Nigeria’s final group match against Rwanda on Monday serves as a formality.
However, the Super Eagles will aim to maintain their unbeaten record as they continue preparations for the continental showpiece.
This post was last modified on November 16, 2024 7:59 am