The Nigerian Super Eagles are preparing to face Benin Republic in their decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match…
After a harrowing in-flight emergency, the Super Eagles have safely arrived in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, according to reports from Soccernet.ng.
On Saturday night, the team’s chartered flight was compelled to make an urgent landing in Luanda, Angola, due to an unexpected technical issue.
Promise Efoghe, the team’s media officer, confirmed that the squad finally touched down in Uyo at 8:05 a.m. on Sunday, concluding a stressful 24-hour journey that began in Polokwane, South Africa, following their 2-1 victory over Lesotho in the World Cup qualifier on Friday.
“The Super Eagles have at last arrived in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, landing at 8:05 a.m. on Sunday morning,” Efoghe informed the press.
Mid-Flight Crisis for the Super Eagles
The incident occurred shortly after the ValueJet plane, carrying the team, took off from Luanda following a refueling stop. A sudden technical malfunction caused a loud crack to appear on the aircraft’s windshield.
Faced with this alarming situation, the pilots promptly executed a turnaround maneuver, safely returning the plane to Luanda’s airport.
“The aircraft experienced a cracked windscreen mid-flight after takeoff, but the pilot expertly navigated the plane back to Luanda airport without incident,” the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) stated.
The NFF also disclosed that they collaborated closely with ValueJet Airlines and government officials-including the Ministers of Aviation and Foreign Affairs, as well as the President’s Chief of Staff-to secure a replacement aircraft from Lagos to continue the team’s journey.
Premier League Stars Lead the Squad
The team’s roster includes notable Premier League talents such as Fulham’s Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, and Samuel Chukwueze, alongside Brentford’s Frank Onyeka, Wolves’ Tolu Arokodare, Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen, and Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman.
Despite the unsettling flight experience, all players and staff arrived unharmed in Uyo and are set to recommence training immediately as they prepare for the crucial World Cup qualifier against Benin Republic on Tuesday.
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