In the wake of a harrowing ordeal that left many Nigerians shaken, Moses Simon has returned from Libya, expressing a deep sense of relief and determination.
The Super Eagles were scheduled to face the Mediterranean Knights in the reverse fixture of the AFCON 2025 qualifiers on Tuesday, October 15. Nigeria had previously emerged victorious in the first leg, setting high expectations for their performance in this crucial match.
Originally slated to land in Benghazi, where the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) had arranged transportation and accommodation, the Super Eagles' chartered flight was unexpectedly redirected to Al Abraq, a remote city located over 200 miles away.
Upon arrival, chaos ensued as the Libyan Football Federation did not provide transportation, food, or any communication regarding the team's next steps. This left the Super Eagles facing a logistical nightmare just days before their crucial match.
Nigeria captain, William Troost-Ekong, took to the social media platform X to share details of the ordeal, which extended for over 20 hours. In response to the situation, Nigeria made the decision to boycott the match and return directly to Nigeria without participating in any play.
Simon stresses resilience after Libya experience
Expressing a deep sense of relief and determination, Simon reflected on the challenges faced during their trip.
Speaking to L'Équipe, Simon, who is set to rejoin his team for the upcoming Ligue 1 match against OGC Nice on Sunday, reflected on the challenges faced during his recent ordeal and expressed his hope that such incidents will never be repeated.
“Right now, I'm fine, I'm on the plane, relieved to be back and I'll be ready on Sunday. It's my job. But I hope this kind of thing never happens again, he said.”
The Nantes forward has made an impressive start to the 2024/25 season. The 29-year-old has contributed four goal involvements in just seven matches in the French top flight, netting two goals and providing two assists.
He was also named to the Ligue 1 Team of the Month for September.
