The Super Eagles’ journey to Uyo for their final 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Benin Republic took an unexpected and tense turn on Friday after their chartered aircraft developed a technical fault mid-flight.
Reports indicate that the ValueJet plane, which was conveying the team from Polokwane, South Africa, made a scheduled refuelling stop in Luanda, Angola. However, shortly after take-off from Luanda, the flight crew detected a cracked windscreen, forcing the pilot to make an emergency return to the airport.
Displaying remarkable composure and professionalism, the pilot safely landed the aircraft back at Luanda Airport, averting what could have been a major disaster. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and all players, coaches, and officials on board were confirmed safe.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), in a statement released shortly after the incident, assured fans that there was no cause for alarm. The football body stated that immediate arrangements were being made to dispatch another aircraft from Lagos to Luanda to convey the Super Eagles delegation safely to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
“All players and officials are in good condition. The team will continue their journey to Uyo as soon as the replacement aircraft arrives,” the NFF confirmed.
The incident momentarily delayed the team’s arrival ahead of their crucial World Cup qualifier, but spirits remain high within the camp as the players look forward to finishing their qualifying campaign on a strong note.
