Nigeria’s Super Eagles are gearing up to host Libya’s Mediterranean Knights in a crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifier. The match is scheduled for Friday, October 11, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. This fixture marks the third matchday in the qualifying campaign as both teams vie for a spot in the continental competition set to take place in Morocco.
Nigeria’s journey to AFCON 2025 began with a resounding 3-0 victory over Benin Republic, a match that showcased the Super Eagles’ strength and attacking prowess.
Goals from key players sealed the comfortable win, placing Nigeria in a strong position at the start of the qualifiers.
However, their second group match was less straightforward.
The Super Eagles were held to a goalless draw by Rwanda’s Amavubi in a tense encounter.
Despite the stalemate, Nigeria remains atop Group D with four points from two matches, maintaining an unbeaten record as they head into the doubleheader against Libya.
Libya, on the other hand, has had a less successful start to their qualification campaign.
The Mediterranean Knights have managed just one point from their two matches, leaving them at the bottom of the group.
Their opening game saw them struggle to find form, and a subsequent draw has left them needing a win against Nigeria to revive their hopes of reaching the tournament in Morocco.
Despite their current position, Libya cannot be underestimated, and they will be eager to cause an upset when they visit Uyo for the crucial match.
The return leg is scheduled just four days later, on October 15, at Tripoli International Stadium, giving both teams a quick turnaround to settle the tie.
The Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, often referred to as the “Nest of Champions,” has become a fortress for the Super Eagles in recent years. Located in Uyo, the stadium has hosted several high-profile international matches, with Nigeria often enjoying strong home support.
This time will be no different as the fans are expected to turn out in large numbers to back the Super Eagles in their quest to qualify for AFCON 2025.
Nigeria will be looking to capitalise on home advantage and extend their lead at the top of Group D with a victory over Libya.
Head coach José Peseiro will be keen to see his squad put on a dominant display as they aim to secure early qualification for the tournament.
With the AFCON 2025 tournament set for Morocco, the stakes are high for all teams involved in the qualifiers.
Only the top teams from each group will progress to the prestigious competition, and Nigeria will be hoping to avoid any slip-ups against Libya.
A win in Uyo would put them in a commanding position, making the subsequent trip to Tripoli less pressurised.
As the Super Eagles prepare for their back-to-back clashes with Libya, fans will be hoping for strong performances from key players such as Victor Osimhen and Kelechi Iheanacho, who have both been pivotal in Nigeria’s recent success.
Meanwhile, Libya will be determined to turn their fortunes around and climb off the bottom of the group standings.
With everything to play for, the upcoming encounters promise to be intense, with the Super Eagles aiming to continue their journey towards AFCON 2025 qualification.
