Nigeria will host Libya in a key 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Friday evening, MySportDab Reports.
The Super Eagles are aiming to extend their unbeaten start in the qualifiers, while the visitors are still searching for their first victory of the campaign.
Match Preview
Nigeria kicked off their AFCON qualifying campaign with a commanding 3-0 win over Benin Republic before playing out a goalless draw away to Rwanda. The Super Eagles currently sit atop Group D with four points and remain the only team yet to concede a goal in the group.
Securing victories in their upcoming doubleheader against Libya would see Nigeria pull clear in the group and move closer to qualifying for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.
Historically, Nigeria has dominated Libya, winning all four previous meetings, including two crucial encounters during the 2018 AFCON qualifiers.
Interim coach Augustine Eguavoen, who has remained in charge since his temporary appointment, has been tasked with leading Nigeria back to the tournament, where they finished as runners-up in the last edition.
The Super Eagles have lost just one of their last 14 AFCON qualifying matches and will be looking to continue their strong form.
Libya, on the other hand, are desperate for points after a challenging start to their qualifying campaign. The Mediterranean Knights were held to a 1-1 draw by Rwanda in their opening match and suffered a 2-1 defeat to Benin Republic in their second game.
Libya last qualified for AFCON in 2012, and head coach Milutin Sredojevic will be eager to turn their fortunes around, as they currently sit bottom of Group D with just one point.
Team News
Nigeria will be without star striker Victor Osimhen, who recently signed with Galatasaray, and defender Olisah Ndah of Orlando Pirates due to injuries.
However, Sevilla’s Chidera Ejuke returns to the squad after a long absence, and Bright Osayi-Samuel is back in the fold following an injury last month. Ademola Lookman, who netted twice in Nigeria’s last home match, will be the key player to watch for the hosts.
Libya will also be missing several key players, including defenders Ahmed Al-Tarbi, Mohammed Al-Tabbal, and Ali Yousse due to injuries. Striker Ahmed Kraouaa is expected to lead the attack, though he is yet to score in the qualifiers.
Predicted Lineups
Nigeria: Nwabali; Ekong, Ajayi, Bassey; Aina, Ndidi, Onyedika, Onyemaechi; Lookman, Boniface, Chukwueze.
Libya: Al Wuhayshi; Elkouri, Yusuf, Erteiba, Al Mabrouk; Al Badri, Al Shreimy; Salama, Al Khoja, Al Gleib; Kraouaa.
