Nigeria will face Libya in two important AFCON qualifying matches. The Super Eagles lead their group but are without star striker Victor Osimhen, placing pressure on Victor Boniface. Libya, on a poor run, aims for a draw in their first match. The clash is set for October 11 at 5:00 p.m. local time in Uyo, Nigeria.
Nigeria is set to advance in their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign with two crucial matches against Libya this month. The Super Eagles currently lead Group D, having accumulated four points from their first two fixtures held back in September. These outcomes have somewhat restored confidence following a challenging World Cup qualifying phase. In contrast, Libya heads into these games following a three-match winless streak, with their most recent match resulting in a loss to Benin. Acknowledging their current standing, Libya’s head coach Nasser Al-Hadiri has indicated a strategy of playing for a draw in the first encounter slated for Uyo. Victor Ikpeba, a former Nigerian striker, emphasized the importance of respecting Libya’s approach to the game, noting their likely defensive tactics and reliance on counterattacks. With the absence of star striker Victor Osimhen, who is expected to return to fitness only by late October, Victor Boniface is under pressure to perform. Boniface, who has scored six goals for Bayer Leverkusen this season, has yet to find the net for the Super Eagles in his eight appearances. Defender Olisa Ndah will also be missing in action, leaving interim coach Augustine Eguavoen with a largely robust squad. The team will be captained by William Troost-Ekong and features notable players such as Alex Iwobi from Fulham, AC Milan’s Samuel Chukwueze, and Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman, who has been nominated for the Ballon d’Or. Bright Osayi-Samuel returns after missing the previous international break, while Chidera Ejuke could secure his first cap since participating in the 2021 AFCON. The predicted lineup for Nigeria includes a formation of 3-4-3: Nwabali (GK), Ajayi, Troost-Ekong, Bassey, Aina, Ndidi, Iwobi, Onyemaechi, Chukwueze, Boniface, and Lookman. The full squad features various goalkeepers and defenders, alongside a pool of midfielders and forwards ready to face Libya. The matches will take place at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 5:00 p.m. local time on Friday, October 11. The match will be accessible via various TV channels and streaming services across different regions including Fubo and Fanatiz in the USA, as well as bet365 in the UK.
The Nigeria national football team is currently preparing for vital AFCON qualifying matches against Libya. Their successful performance in previous qualifiers has positioned them favorably in Group D. However, the absence of key players like Victor Osimhen places significant pressure on others, including Victor Boniface. These matches are critical for both teams, particularly Libya, who are struggling with recent results and looking to improve their standing in the qualifiers. Understanding the dynamics at play is essential for grasping the challenges and expectations leading into these fixtures.
In summary, Nigeria’s national team is on track to secure their position in the upcoming AFCON, while facing Libya who are in a precarious situation following consecutive losses. The Super Eagles must navigate the challenges posed by injuries to key players. Similarly, Libya’s strategy is likely to focus on a defensive approach, showcasing the importance of tactical awareness in international matches. Both teams will vie for crucial points that could define their campaigns going forward.
Original Source: www.sportingnews.com
