Fisayo Dele-Bashiru came off the bench to score the decisive goal as Nigeria edged past Libya with a 1-0 victory in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier. The match, held at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, saw the Super Eagles extend their unbeaten run in the qualifiers.
First Half: Missed Opportunities
The Super Eagles entered the match as heavy favorites, boasting a stronger squad than their opponents, the Mediterranean Knights. However, despite their early dominance, Nigeria struggled to find the breakthrough in the first half.
Alex Iwobi had a golden chance in the 10th minute, but his close-range shot was denied by Libyan goalkeeper Murad Al Wuheesi. Victor Boniface also came close in the 16th minute after being set up by Frank Onyeka, only for a last-ditch tackle to stop him from shooting.
Another big opportunity fell to William Troost-Ekong, who found himself in front of an open goal after a save by Al Wuheesi. Unfortunately, the defender blasted his shot high and wide from just two meters out.
Second Half: Nigeria on the Front Foot
Nigeria ramped up the pressure in the second half, determined to break down Libya’s resilient defense. Iwobi continued to be involved in the action, but his header from Bruno Onyemaechi’s cross in the 56th minute drifted just wide of the goal.
Iwobi’s struggles in front of goal persisted, missing another key chance just minutes later. His misfired shot in the 59th minute was a reflection of Nigeria’s frustration as they continued to dominate but couldn’t convert their chances.
Key Substitutions Change the Game
Recognizing the need for fresh energy, head coach Augustine Eguavoen made two crucial changes. He brought on Samuel Chukwueze for Onyeka in the 62nd minute and replaced Iwobi with Fisayo Dele-Bashiru in the 74th minute.
These substitutions added much-needed spark to Nigeria’s attack, and the momentum began to shift. In the 83rd minute, Ademola Lookman appeared to have broken the deadlock after a clever one-two with Chukwueze, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside. Replays later showed Lookman was onside, but with no VAR in place, the goal stood disallowed.
Dele-Bashiru’s Late Heroics
Nigeria, however, refused to be denied. Just two minutes later, Moses Simon showcased his skill down the left flank, weaving past defenders before delivering a pinpoint cross into the box. Dele-Bashiru, who had been on the pitch for just over ten minutes, connected perfectly with the cross, firing a composed shot into the back of the net to give Nigeria the 1-0 lead.
Conclusion
The late strike from Dele-Bashiru secured Nigeria a vital three points, bringing their AFCON qualifier tally to seven points from three matches. Despite the narrow margin of victory, the Super Eagles will be pleased with their persistence and will look to build on this momentum as they continue their quest for a place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.