By Milcah Tanimu
Group D favorites Nigeria are eager to secure their unbeaten qualifying record as they host Libya in a crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on Friday, October 11. Kick-off is set for 6 PM CAT (SA, GMT+2).
Augustine Eguavoen, the technical director of the Nigeria Football Federation, has enjoyed a successful start to his interim coaching tenure, leading the Super Eagles to a commanding 3-0 victory over Benin in Uyo on September 7. Despite a challenging 0-0 draw against Rwanda three days later, Nigeria remains at the top of Group D, holding a one-point lead over the Cheetahs.
In contrast, Libya’s Mediterranean Knights had a promising start to the year, winning their first four friendlies and securing a 2-1 victory over Mauritius in a 2026 World Cup qualifier on June 6. However, they faced their first defeat against Cape Verde, losing 1-0 five days later.
Libya began their AFCON qualifying campaign with a 1-1 draw against Rwanda on September 4. Although they took an early lead in their next match against Benin, they suffered a 2-1 defeat in Abidjan. Currently, the group remains competitive, with Libya trailing Rwanda by just one point and three points behind leaders Nigeria.
