AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Libya coach Youssef Dabo names squad for crucial Tunisia double-header

Libya head coach Youssef Dabo has announced a 27-man squad for the upcoming double-header against Tunisia in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers as the Mediterranean Knights seek to revive their campaign.

The North African side are under pressure to secure their first victory in the qualifying series after failing to make a winning start to their campaign.

Libya began their qualifying journey with a 1-1 draw against Botswana before suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to Uganda on matchday two, leaving them with just one point from their opening two matches.

With their qualification ambitions at stake, Dabo has turned his attention to the upcoming fixtures against Tunisia, naming 27 players as he prepares his squad for the challenging encounters.

The selection features a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talents, with several familiar names included across the goalkeeping, defensive, midfield and attacking departments.

Among the notable selections are midfielder Ahmad Benali, who is expected to bring experience to the team’s engine room, and former Al Ahly Tripoli playmaker Muayid Ellafi.

Experienced attackers Hamdou Elhouni and Ismael Tajouri have also been included, offering Libya additional quality and attacking options as they prepare to take on their North African neighbours.

The first encounter will take place on November 11, 2026, at the Stade Taïeb Mhiri in Sfax, where Tunisia will enjoy home advantage.

The two countries will renew their rivalry four days later, with Libya hosting the return fixture at Tripoli Stadium.

Dabo will be hoping his players can deliver improved performances in both encounters and collect the maximum points needed to strengthen their position in the qualifying campaign.

Libya squad for Tunisia double-header

Goalkeepers: Aymen Al Tihar, Mohammed Ayad (Al Dreibi), Mourad Al Wuhayshi.

Defenders: Mohammed Khalil, Sobhi Al Mabrouk, Mohammed Al Ajnaf, Fadel Salama, Ali Youssef, Saif Jaddour, Ahmed Shalabi, Ibrahim Bourouis, Ayoub Lajhar, Abdulaziz Al Suwaee.

Midfielders: Basheer Al Hubaishi, Husain Taqtaq, Marwan Al Hbeishi, Mahmoud Al Shalui, Ahmad Benali, Osama Al Shreimy, Abdullah Al Orfey, Muayid Ellafi, Alaa Al Gejdar, Hamza Al Mugsi.

Forwards: Ahmed Al Bizi, Hamdou Elhouni, Ezzeddine Al Mariami, Amjed Al Gsheim, Ismael Tajouri, Mouad Issa.