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Date: October 11, 2024
Venue: Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo
Attendance: 30,000+
Summary:
Nigeria secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Libya in a crucial 2025 AFCON qualifier. The Super Eagles dominated possession for most of the match but struggled to break down a resolute Libyan defense. It wasn’t until the 80th minute that substitute Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, who came on in the second half, delivered the winning goal, securing all three points for Nigeria.
First Half:
The Super Eagles started brightly, with forwards Victor Osimhen and Kelechi Iheanacho testing the Libyan goalkeeper with early efforts. Despite their dominance, Nigeria found it difficult to penetrate Libya’s compact defense. Libya, meanwhile, looked dangerous on the counterattack, but Nigerian goalkeeper Francis Uzoho was rarely troubled.
As the half wore on, Nigeria’s midfield trio, led by Wilfred Ndidi, controlled the tempo, but the final ball was lacking. The best chance of the half fell to Osimhen, who struck the post from close range after a cross from Samuel Chukwueze. The first half ended 0-0.
Second Half:
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Nigeria continuing to push for a breakthrough. Manager José Peseiro made key changes, bringing on Fisayo Dele-Bashiru for Ndidi in the 65th minute, adding more attacking impetus.
Libya, clearly content with a draw, packed men behind the ball, frustrating the Nigerian attackers. Despite chances from Osimhen and Chukwueze, Libya’s defense held firm until Dele-Bashiru made his mark.
The Winning Goal (80th minute):
The breakthrough finally came when Dele-Bashiru received a pass from Chukwueze at the edge of the box, sidestepped two defenders, and unleashed a powerful low shot into the bottom corner. The Libyan goalkeeper had no chance, and the crowd in Uyo erupted in celebration.
Nigeria held on for the final 10 minutes despite some late Libyan pressure, with Uzoho making a crucial save in stoppage time to preserve the clean sheet.
Key Players:
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru: The 22-year-old midfielder was the hero of the day, coming off the bench to score the decisive goal.
Victor Osimhen: Nigeria’s talisman was a constant threat throughout the game, though unlucky not to score.
Wilfred Ndidi: Dominated the midfield battle before being substituted for Dele-Bashiru.
Manager’s Comments:
José Peseiro praised his team’s persistence after the match: “We knew Libya would be tough to break down, but the boys showed great patience. Dele-Bashiru made a big impact, and I’m proud of how we fought until the end.”
Next Fixture:
Nigeria’s next qualifier will be against Mozambique, where another win could all but secure their qualification for AFCON 2025.
