In Uyo tonight, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru emerged as the Super Eagles’ hero, coming off the bench to secure a dramatic late winner in a crucial 2025 AFCON qualifier against a tenacious Libyan side. The Lazio midfielder converted an 86th-minute cross from the industrious Moses Simon, finally breaking the deadlock and giving Nigeria a hard-fought victory after Libya had frustrated them for most of the game. Dele-Bashiru’s strike helped solidify the Super Eagles’ position at the top of Group D, with seven points from three matches.
Benin now trails closely in second place with six points, following their 3-0 victory over Rwanda in Abidjan.
The first half saw Nigeria dominate possession, but inspired goalkeeping from Libya’s Murad Al Wheeshi kept the scoreline even. Ademola Lookman was particularly lively in the opening stages, but Libya’s well-organized defense, set up in a deep 4-5-1 formation, thwarted his efforts. In the 28th minute, William Ekong sent a rebound from a Frank Onyeka effort sailing over the bar, giving Libya hope of holding out.
Wilfred Ndidi later played a fine pass to Lookman, who combined neatly with Alex Iwobi, only for the latter to squander the opportunity. Victor Boniface, Moses Simon, and Iwobi all had their chances throughout a frustrating evening for the Super Eagles, but the Libyan defense remained resilient, consistently putting bodies on the line to prevent a breakthrough.
In the second half, the Super Eagles continued to push for a goal. Alex Iwobi missed two promising chances—first with a free header in the 56th minute and later with a half-volley that sailed wide. Substitute Samuel Chukwueze injected fresh energy into Nigeria’s attack and almost broke through Libya’s defense in the 71st minute, but his shot was expertly saved by the impressive Libyan keeper.
As the game neared its end, Lookman thought he had finally put Nigeria ahead, only for his goal to be controversially ruled offside. However, Dele-Bashiru eventually settled the nerves of the home crowd with his decisive finish, ensuring Nigeria took all three points in front of a jubilant crowd in Uyo.
Starting XI for the Super Eagles vs Libya (4–3-3): Stanley Nwabali – Calvin Bassey, William Ekong (Captain), Bruno Onyemaechi, Ola Aina – Wilfred Ndidi (Raphael Onyedika 74), Frank Onyeka (Samuel Chukwueze 61), Alex Iwobi (Fisayo Dele-Bashiru 74) – Ademola Lookman (Semi Ajayi 90), Victor Boniface (Taiwo Awoniyi 74), Moses Simon.
