The Super Eagles of Nigeria achieved an essential 1-0 win over Libya in their AFCON 2025 qualifier held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Friday evening, with a decisive late goal from substitute Fisayo Dele-Bashiru. The match unfolded dramatically, as Nigeria faced difficulties in breaking down a resilient Libyan defense. Dele-Bashiru’s introduction in the second half proved pivotal; he scored in the 86th minute, demonstrating composure under pressure. This goal not only salvaged the match for Nigeria but also energized a crowd that had been anxiously awaiting a breakthrough, illustrating the challenge the Eagles faced against their opponents.
Throughout the match, the Super Eagles struggled to build momentum, finding it hard to penetrate Libya’s organized defense that effectively absorbed Nigerian attacks. The game remained tense and closely contested until the final moments when Nigeria executed a swift counterattack. Dele-Bashiru, who was brought on to add dynamism to the midfield, showcased his skill by slotting the ball into the net with lucidity, rewarding Nigeria’s persistence. His late-game heroics underscored his rising significance within the squad, particularly as the team gears up for future challenges in their campaign.
Despite Nigeria’s grip on the match, it wasn’t an entirely smooth affair. In the 70th minute, Samuel Chukwueze squandered a clear opportunity that would have given Nigeria an early lead, while only moments later, in the 83rd minute, Ademola Lookman found the net but had his goal disallowed for offside. Such incidents highlighted both the pressure on Nigeria to perform and the doggedness of a Libyan side refusing to collapse under sustained Nigerian pressure. These near-misses added to the intensity of the match and exemplified the challenges faced by coach Austin Eguavoen’s side during this qualifying journey.
The victory against Libya significantly boosts Nigeria’s ambitions of qualifying for the AFCON 2025 tournament. Currently topping Group D with seven points from three matches, Nigeria sits at a precarious yet promising position, followed closely by Rwanda with six points. While Libya languishes at the bottom of the group with only one point, the stakes are high in the remaining matches. The upcoming return fixture against Libya on October 15 will be vital as Nigeria seeks to consolidate its lead in this competitive group.
As Nigeria navigates this qualification journey, key players such as Victor Boniface, Ademola Lookman, and Moses Simon have become central to the team’s attacking strategies, especially following Victor Osimhen’s injury. Lookman and Boniface have notably featured prominently in previous matches, illustrating their ability to step up when called upon. Meanwhile, Simon, who made a starting appearance against Libya, provided an attacking option that aided the Eagles’ efforts. The blend of experience and youthful energy continues to shape the team’s dynamics as they strive for success.
In terms of defensive organization, the Super Eagles deployed Stanley Nwabali as goalkeeper, supported by a back line of Ola Aina, William Troost-Ekong, Bruno Onyemaechi, and Calvin Bassey. In the midfield, the combination of Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Alex Iwobi was employed to provide both defensive stability and creative thrust going forward. As the Eagles plan for their next encounter, maintaining structural integrity while allowing for attacking fluidity will be crucial for their aspirations in the ongoing AFCON qualifiers. The commitment to these strategies, coupled with impactful individual performances like that of Dele-Bashiru, will be imperative as Nigeria seeks to ensure its place in the prestigious tournament.
