Super Eagles’ Flight to Uyo Delayed After Aircraft Windscreen Cracks Mid-Air

Nigeria’s Super Eagles’ journey to Uyo for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Benin Republic suffered an unexpected delay on Sunday after their aircraft developed a cracked windscreen mid-air.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed that the team’s ValueJet chartered flight from Polokwane, South Africa, to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, was forced to return to Luanda, Angola, shortly after takeoff due to the technical issue.

“The ValueJet Airline plane conveying the team from Polokwane to Uyo developed a cracked windscreen mid-air after taking off from a refueling stop in Luanda, Angola,” the NFF said in a statement.
“The pilot, acting swiftly and professionally, safely returned the aircraft to the Luanda airport, averting any danger.”

The same aircraft, the NFF noted, had previously transported part of the Super Eagles delegation to Polokwane on Thursday night for the earlier qualifier against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana.

“The aircraft had also been used for similar routes during the team’s Matchday 8 encounter in Bloemfontein last month,” the statement added.

Replacement Aircraft En Route

The federation assured fans that arrangements are in motion to get the team to Uyo safely.

“ValueJet, in collaboration with the relevant federal authorities — including the Ministers of Aviation and Foreign Affairs, as well as the Chief of Staff to the President — are working urgently to secure overflying and landing permits for a replacement aircraft,” the NFF stated.
“The new plane will depart Lagos for Luanda to pick up the delegation and convey them safely to Uyo.”

The NFF expressed appreciation to fans and stakeholders for their patience and understanding, assuring that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the safe and timely arrival of the Super Eagles ahead of Tuesday’s crucial fixture against Benin Republic.

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