The Nigerian Super Eagles were traveling from Polokwane, South Africa, to Uyo when their plane experienced a cracked windscreen, prompting the flight to make an emergency return to Angola shortly after departing from Luanda, Angola, where they had stopped for refueling.
After the unexpected mid-air incident, the Super Eagles finally arrived in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, with their chartered flight making a safe emergency return to Angola on Saturday. The Nigerian international team, featuring management staff and the players including Victor Osimhen, safely landed at the Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo at 8:05 a.m. on Sunday, October 12, 2025.
Touchdown in Uyo! ✈️
Focus shifts to Benin, we go for the win!#Naija4theWin #SoarSuperEagles pic.twitter.com/7JElMcFhmV
— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) October 12, 2025
Reports indicate that the pilot maintained calm during the situation and expertly navigated the aircraft back to Luanda Airport, ensuring the safety of all passengers on board.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed that emergency measures were quickly put into action, with another plane sent from Lagos to transport the team to Uyo.
Nevertheless, this incident resulted in a delay for the team’s scheduled arrival ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Benin Republic, which is set to hold on Tuesday, 14th October, 2025, and is an important match that could impact Nigeria’s 2026 World cup aspirations.
With their safe landing now confirmed, attention returns to football as the Super Eagles strive to earn crucial points in what many have labeled a “must-win” match.
Currently, the Super Eagles are in third place in Group C with 14 points, trailing behind Benin Republic and South Africa, who hold the first and second spots, respectively.
Share your thoughts about this post in the comments section, and let us know if you think Nigeria stands a chance to qualify or win the next world cup.
