Kenyan star Ochieng urges Nigeria to end unfair tactics after Super Eagles’ ordeal in Libya

Kenyan international David Ochieng has strongly criticised Nigeria for their reaction to difficulties faced during their Africa Cup of Nations 2025 qualifier against Libya.

The Super Eagles had faced delays and poor treatment at Al Abraq Airport, where they were stranded for over 12 hours without food ahead of the second-leg match.

Nigeria had secured a 1-0 victory in the first leg, with Fisayo Dele-Bashiru netting a late winner on Friday, 11 October.

The Super Eagles were hoping to extend their lead in the return fixture, but the match was postponed following the logistical issues.

Libya alleged that their actions mirror the treatment their national team faced during their travel to Nigeria.

Ochieng argued that while Nigeria faced unfortunate circumstances in Libya, they had engaged in similar behaviour when hosting visiting teams.

Reflecting on his own experience during a 2014 World Cup qualifier in Calabar, Nigeria, Ochieng alleged that Kenya’s Harambee Stars were denied access to proper training facilities.

Ochieng recalled how the Kenyan team had to train on a local primary school’s grounds and endure long hours on the road before their game.

The match ended 1-1, with Nigeria securing a late equaliser before winning the return leg in Kenya.

Despite frowning at Libya’s hostile reception of the Super Eagles, Ochieng also urged Nigeria to engage in fairer sportsmanship.

“I sympathise with what Nigerian players underwent in Libya,” Ochieng told Mozzart Sport.

“Such shameful events should not be happening in this day and age. It is, however, important for Nigeria to have an honest conversation with themselves on how they treat visiting teams. They have a history of doing it and should change.

“The Nigerian team has the quality to win matches. I fail to understand why they should be embracing some tactics which have been overtaken by time. Football is about friendship and it is time African teams, that engage in such, styled up.”

Nigeria boast an excellent unbeaten record against Kenya in their 14 meetings, winning 12 and drawing four.