2025 Afconq: Libya's dark arts and four other observations from Super Eagles hard-fought win

Nigeria secured a hard-fought 1-0 win over Libya to maintain their lead in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.

After missing several chances throughout the match, the Super Eagles finally broke the deadlock in the 86th minute, thanks to substitute Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.

The victory keeps Nigeria at the top of the group with seven points, one point ahead of Benin, who sit in second place.

Allnigeriasoccer.com presents five observations from the game.

Boniface struggles to perform in Osimhen's absence

Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface once again started for Nigeria in place of the injured Victor Osimhen, ahead of Kelechi Iheanacho and Taiwo Awoniyi.

However, the 23-year-old's struggles with the national team continued, as he failed to make a significant impact during the match. Boniface did not register a shot on target and was unsuccessful in all three of his attempted dribbles.

He was eventually substituted in the 74th minute, with Taiwo Awoniyi taking his place. This performance extends Boniface's goal drought for the national team since making his debut.

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru scores late winner as Super Eagles miss chances

Lazio midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru proved decisive in Nigeria's match against Libya, scoring the winning goal late in the game.

The Manchester City academy graduate found the back of the net in the 86th minute, easing the tension in the stadium.

The 23-year-old started the match on the bench but was brought on in the 74th minute, replacing Alex Iwobi.

However, the Super Eagles have only themselves to blame for the tension in the closing stages of the game, having missed several scoring opportunities throughout the match.

Libya's dark arts, harass the referee

Facing Nigeria as underdogs, the Mediterranean Knights employed a compact defensive setup and time-wasting tactics to stay in the game during their match in Uyo.

The Libyans took every opportunity to slow down the tempo and frustrate the Super Eagles, using delays to disrupt Nigeria's rhythm and grow into the game.

Libyan goalkeeper Murad Al Wuheeshi was eventually booked for time-wasting after delaying a goal kick, further highlighting their strategy to run down the clock.

After the game, the visibly frustrated Libyan players confronted the referee, protesting several decisions they felt had gone against them during the match.

Murad Al Wuheeshi shines despite injury scare

Libyan goalkeeper Al Wuheeshi delivered an impressive performance against Nigeria, making crucial saves to deny the Super Eagles.

However, in the second half, he suffered a potential injury after a collision with Victor Boniface inside the box.

Al Wuheeshi went down following the collision and required treatment for over five minutes before play resumed. Despite the injury scare, he continued to stand firm between the posts.

Controversial refereeing decisions by Godfrey Nkhakananga

Malawian referee Nkhakananga, appointed by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to officiate the match between Nigeria and Libya, made several controversial decisions during the game.

He denied Ademola Lookman a penalty in the opening minutes and later disallowed a second-half goal, ruling him offside.

Despite these contentious calls, Nkhakananga made efforts to keep the game flowing, countering Libya's attempts to slow down the pace and run down the clock.

Adeyemi Adewale

Copyright ANS

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com