Super Eagles players celebrate Dele-Bashiru’s goal against Libya | Image: X/@NGSuperEagles
Nigeria beats Libya 1-0 in Uyo
By Valentine Amanze
Super Eagles of Nigeria on Friday October 11, 2024 defeated the Mediterranean Knights of Libya 1-0 in the ongoing African Nations (AFCON) qualifier played in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.
Lazio player Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, who replaced Alex Iwobi in the 74th minute, scored the winner in the 86th minute after connecting well with a low cross from Moses Simon.
Prior to Dele-Bashiru’s goal, Ademola Lookman’s effort was controversially ruled offside as the Super Eagles missed many scoring chances in the first half, while pressing the Libyans in their half.
The North Africans’ game plan of packing the bus with a nine-man defence only frustrated Super Eagles, as they also employed all kinds of tactics, including time-wasting to keep the Nigerians at bay.
The win puts the Super Eagles at the top of Group D with 7 points ahead of Benin Republic (6), Rwanda (2) and Libya (1).
The Super Eagles dominated play from the first minute to the last in a game where goals were hard to come by.
Also read: Super Eagles hammer Cheeters of Benin Rep 3-0
Coach Austin Eguavoen opted for a three-man attack led by Victor Boniface, Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon in the absence of injured Victor Osimhen.
Stanley Nwabali was retained in goal, with Ola Aina, William Troost-Ekong, Bruno Onyemaechi and Calvin Bassey retaining their positions in the defence.
Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka and Alex Iwobi held it down in the middle of the pack for the three-time African champions.
Nigeria will face the Libyans for the return leg on Tuesday at Benina Martyrs Stadium in Libya.
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