KEY POINTS
- Nigeria struggled against Libya’s defense but secured a win.
- Fisayo Dele-Bashiru scored the decisive goal in the 87th minute.
- Nigeria tops Group D with seven points in AFCON qualifiers.
On the third day of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifications, the Super Eagles defeated Libya 1-0 in the end, thanks to a late goal by Fisayo Dele-Bashiru at Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Friday.
Super Eagles break through Libya’s defense late in the match
Even though they were clear favourites, Nigeria could not overcome a strong Libyan defence. The Super Eagles were expected to win because they had four points from their opening two games, but Libya’s well-organised defence made it a difficult match.
With the victory, Nigeria, who had defeated Benin and drew with Rwanda, tops Group D with seven points. The win improves their prospects of making it to the Morocco 2025 AFCON.
BusinessDay reported Ahmed Ekrawa of Libya attempted a long-range effort from his own half ten minutes into the game, but Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was unaffected. Shortly afterwards, Alex Iwobi of Nigeria successfully attempted their first shot on goal, compelling Libyan custodian Murad Al Wuheeshi to make a save.
Nigeria dominates possession but struggles to convert chances
Victor Boniface received a cross from Ademola Lookman shortly before halftime, but the Libyan defence blocked his header. Iwobi received a cross into the box early in the second half from Bruno Onyemaechi, thanks to a ball from Wilfred Ndidi, but the Fulham midfielder was unable to score.
Iwobi was given another opportunity when Lookman headed Onyemaechi’s cross towards him as the Super Eagles persisted in their attack, but he was unable to score. Samuel Chukwueze also twice found himself in advantageous situations, but the outstanding Al Wuheeshi denied the AC Milan forward both times.
After a perfectly placed assist from Moses Simon, substitute Dele-Bashiru scored the game-winning goal in the 87th minute to give Nigeria all three points.
The Super Eagles’ miraculous late goal from Dele-Bashiru proved to be the difference as they went on to win the AFCON qualifiers. On Tuesday, they will depart for Libya to complete the return leg.
