The Super Eagles of Nigeria secured a vital 1-0 win over Libya in their AFCON 2025 qualifier on Friday evening, with substitute Fisayo Dele-Bashiru scoring a late goal to seal the victory.
This win keeps Nigeria at the top of Group D with seven points from their first three games, following Benin’s 3-0 triumph over Rwanda.
In a tense match held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, Dele-Bashiru made a dramatic impact after being brought on as a substitute, scoring in the 86th minute to break the deadlock in what had been a tight contest.
Nigeria struggled to break through Libya’s defense for most of the game, as the visitors held firm against repeated Nigerian attacks. However, with just minutes left, Nigeria launched a swift counterattack that ended with Dele-Bashiru coolly finishing to give the home team a hard-earned win.
The Super Eagles now look ahead to the return match in Libya on Tuesday, October 15.
Despite their struggles in front of goal, Nigeria’s persistence paid off in the closing moments. Dele-Bashiru, on loan from Lazio, took full advantage of his opportunity and emerged as the game’s standout performer.
Libya put up a strong fight but ultimately couldn’t hold off Nigeria’s late surge. The victory strengthens Nigeria’s bid for the AFCON 2025 qualification, and the 23-year-old midfielder’s decisive goal underlines his growing importance in the team.
Earlier in the match, Samuel Chukwueze missed a clear one-on-one chance to put Nigeria ahead in the 70th minute, while an Ademola Lookman goal in the 83rd minute was ruled out for offside.
Nigeria remains top of Group D with seven points, followed by Rwanda with six points from their three matches.
Libya sits at the bottom of the group with just one point, while Benin’s victory over Rwanda solidified their position in the group standings.
In the absence of injured striker Victor Osimhen, Nigeria relied on Victor Boniface, Ademola Lookman, and Moses Simon in attack.
Simon, who had come off the bench in previous matches, started this game, while Stanley Nwabali continued as goalkeeper, supported by defenders Ola Aina, William Troost-Ekong, Bruno Onyemaechi, and Calvin Bassey.
Coach Austin Eguavoen chose Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Alex Iwobi to anchor the midfield for the three-time African champions, ensuring Nigeria stayed in control throughout the match.
KanyiDaily recalls that Austin Eguavoen, the Technical Director of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), recently denied rumors that he resigned as interim coach of the Super Eagles.
