Super Eagles‘ Arrival in Uyo Postponed Due to Damaged Aircraft Windscreen
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has announced that the Super Eagles’ journey from Polokwane, South Africa, to Uyo has been delayed because of a cracked windscreen on their chartered ValueJet plane. This setback comes just before their pivotal 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Benin Republic scheduled for Tuesday.
The issue arose shortly after the aircraft made a scheduled refuelling stop in Luanda, Angola. Soon after takeoff, the pilot noticed a fracture in the windscreen and promptly returned the plane safely to Luanda airport for inspection.
It is worth noting that the same aircraft had transported the Nigerian team and delegation to South Africa on Thursday night, arriving in Polokwane on Friday morning ahead of their 2-1 victory over Lesotho.
The NFF has confirmed that ValueJet Airlines, in collaboration with federal government officials, is actively working to resolve the situation and ensure the team reaches Uyo without further delay. Key figures involved in this effort include the Minister of Aviation, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the President’s Chief of Staff.
“We are currently securing the necessary overflight and landing clearances for an alternative aircraft to depart from Lagos, collect the team in Luanda, and transport them to Uyo,” the NFF stated.
Crucial Moment in World Cup Qualification Campaign
This unexpected delay comes at a vital juncture for the Super Eagles, who must secure a win against Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium to maintain their hopes of qualifying for the World Cup.
Presently, Nigeria holds third place in their qualifying group with 14 points, trailing Benin Republic with 17 points and South Africa with 15 points. This makes Tuesday’s fixture an essential must-win for the team’s progression.