World Cup (Q): Mid-air scare delays Nigeria’s arrival in Uyo

The Nigeria Senior Men’s National Team finally touched down in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Sunday morning after their travel plans for the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Benin were disrupted by a serious mid-air emergency.

The Super Eagles, returning from their match against Lesotho, were originally scheduled to arrive on Saturday. However, their chartered flight from Polokwane, South Africa, experienced a technical scare that forced a dramatic diversion.

Nigeria: Forced Landing in Luanda

The team’s flight, operated by Value Jet, made a planned refuelling stop in Luanda, Angola. The real drama began just twenty-five minutes after resuming their journey toward Uyo. A pilot was forced to execute a swift U-turn and return to the Angolan capital when a loud crack appeared on the aircraft’s windshield.

The entire squad and delegation ultimately arrived safely in Uyo at approximately 8:05 AM.. Nigerian time on Sunday, a full day later than planned.

The Qualification Challenge For The Super Eagles

With the travel ordeal behind them, coach Eric Chelle and his team must now shift focus entirely to preparing for their must-win match against Benin Republic (nicknamed The Cheetahs) on Tuesday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

The Super Eagles face a tough task to secure their spot at the tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. They are currently sitting in third place in Group C. To stand a chance of qualifying, Nigeria needs a victory against current group leaders Benin. Furthermore, they need a specific set of results to go their way:

Nigeria must defeat Benin by at least a two-goal margin to overturn the goal difference. They must hope that second-place Bafana Bafana either loses or draws their final match against Rwanda.

Benin, who arrived in Nigeria on Saturday, will undoubtedly be fresher, adding another layer of challenge to the Super Eagles’ decisive final fixture.