Thursday, December 19, 2024

Nigeria Eyes Four-Point Lead as They Face Libya in AFCON 2025 Qualifier

by Hashim
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Nigeria will aim to extend their lead at the top of Group D in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers when they face Libya at the Martyrs of February Stadium on Tuesday, MySportDab Reports.

With a chance to go four points clear, the Super Eagles are poised for a crucial victory, while Libya looks to break their five-match losing streak in this fixture.

In the first leg played last weekend, Nigeria secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium. Lazio midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru netted the decisive goal in the 86th minute, breaking the deadlock after Libya’s staunch defensive performance kept Nigeria at bay for most of the match.

Libya, sitting at the bottom of Group D with just one point from three matches, is in desperate need of a win. They opened their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Rwanda but have since struggled, losing two consecutive matches. Milutin Sredojevic’s side has been unable to find their rhythm, having won only once in their last five competitive matches.

Meanwhile, Nigeria has had a strong start to the qualifiers, remaining unbeaten in their first three games. They opened with a 3-0 win over Benin, followed by a goalless draw against Rwanda.

Now sitting atop Group D with seven points, the Super Eagles are keen to build on their momentum and push closer to AFCON 2025 qualification.

Head coach Augustine Eguavoen’s return has coincided with Nigeria’s resurgence, and the three-time African champions are optimistic about continuing their winning form against a struggling Libyan side.

Nigeria’s recent record against Libya is impeccable, having won their last five encounters, scoring nine goals and keeping four clean sheets.

In terms of team news, Libya is expected to field a similar lineup to the first leg, with a defensive setup aiming to frustrate Nigeria once again. Ahmed Krawaa is likely to lead the attack, supported by Muhannad Eto’o and Bader Hasan in midfield.

For Nigeria, Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface is set to lead the attack, flanked by Moses Simon and Ademola Lookman. Samuel Chukwueze, who sustained a muscle injury in the first leg, has returned to Italy, leaving the Super Eagles without one of their key players.

Wilfried Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Frank Onyeka will anchor the midfield, while Stanley Nwabali is expected to start in goal after three consecutive clean sheets.

Given Nigeria’s form and superior squad quality, they are heavily favored to secure another victory over Libya and extend their lead in Group D.

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