The Super Eagles have safely arrived in Uyo ahead of their crucial FIFA World Cup qualifying match, following an unexpected mid-air delay caused by a technical issue during their flight.
Modzero Media can confirm that the team’s aircraft touched down in the Akwa Ibom State capital at 8:05 a.m. on Sunday morning, ending an anxious wait after a mechanical problem disrupted their travel plans.
The delay occurred when a crack was discovered in the aircraft’s windshield shortly after a scheduled refueling stop in Luanda, Angola. As a safety precaution, the pilot made an emergency landing in Luanda, ensuring the players and officials were kept out of harm’s way.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) later confirmed that it collaborated with ValueJet Airline, the Minister of Aviation, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Chief of Staff to the President to swiftly coordinate a replacement aircraft from Lagos. The rescue flight successfully transported the national team to Uyo, where they will now resume preparations for their next fixture.
Despite the disruption, the Super Eagles are expected to hold two training sessions before Tuesday’s crucial World Cup qualifier against Benin Republic.
With the qualification race heating up, Nigeria will be fully focused on securing maximum points against Benin. A victory in Uyo would keep the Super Eagles within reach of a World Cup ticket if South Africa drop points against Rwanda.
hip