As the Super Eagles of Nigeria prepare to face the Mediterranean Knights of Libya in their third 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier, there is a palpable sense of anticipation. With four points already secured from their previous two matches against Benin and Rwanda, Nigeria is well-positioned to take a significant step towards booking a spot in the tournament. A win in this game could bring them tantalizingly close to qualification, needing just one more victory to confirm their place in the continental showcase. However, Libya, with only one point from their first two games, will be determined to stay in the running, making this match crucial for both sides.
Key Absence: Osimhen Out, Boniface Steps Up
One of the key storylines leading up to this match is the absence of Victor Osimhen, Nigeria’s prolific striker, due to injury. The Galatasaray forward has been a linchpin for the national team, but with his unavailability, the Super Eagles will look to another capable forward, Victor Boniface, to fill the void. Boniface, who plays for Bayer Leverkusen in the German Bundesliga, has been in scintillating form and is more than capable of leading the line in Osimhen’s absence.
Boniface’s rise to prominence has been rapid. The 23-year-old striker has impressed not only with his goal-scoring ability but also with his versatility and work ethic. His presence in the starting lineup adds a different dynamic to Nigeria’s attack, which may provide the Super Eagles with an edge over their Libyan counterparts.
Chidera Ejuke: The Sevilla Star Replaces Struggling Chukwueze
While Boniface is set to lead the line, another key change in the Nigerian attack comes in the form of Chidera Ejuke. The Sevilla winger has been in fine form this season and is expected to take the place of Samuel Chukwueze, who has struggled to find his rhythm in recent games. Ejuke’s agility, speed, and dribbling prowess make him a significant threat on the right wing. His ability to take on defenders one-on-one and create chances for his teammates could be crucial in unlocking the Libyan defense.
Ejuke’s presence in the lineup is not just a response to Chukwueze’s struggles, but also a tactical decision by head coach Augustine Eguavoen. With Ejuke’s current form, he offers a more dynamic and unpredictable option on the right, potentially creating more goal-scoring opportunities for Nigeria’s front line.
Formation and Tactical Setup: Eguavoen’s Tweaks
Augustine Eguavoen, who took over the Super Eagles coaching duties following the departure of José Peseiro, has largely stuck to the same tactical framework used by his predecessor. However, Eguavoen has implemented a few tweaks to ensure more fluidity and stability in the team’s play. The Super Eagles are expected to line up in a 3-4-3 formation, which provides both defensive solidity and attacking flexibility.
At the back, Chippa United goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali is set to continue in goal. Nwabali has been in top form recently, earning the trust of Eguavoen to remain Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper. While Udinese’s Maduka Okoye, another talented shot-stopper, will serve as the backup, it is Nwabali who has shown enough consistency to warrant a starting berth.
In defense, Eguavoen will likely stick with the trusted trio of Semi Ajayi, William Troost-Ekong, and Calvin Bassey. These three have formed a solid partnership, offering both aerial dominance and ball-playing ability. Ola Aina, who has been in impressive form for Nottingham Forest in the English Premier League, is expected to start as the right wing-back, while Bruno Onyemaechi will likely feature on the left.
In the midfield, Wilfred Ndidi will take his usual spot as the anchor. The Leicester City midfielder is renowned for his tackling ability and reading of the game, making him the key to breaking up Libya’s attacking moves and transitioning the play forward. Partnering Ndidi in midfield will likely be Everton’s Alex Iwobi. Iwobi’s creativity and ability to link the defense with the attack are invaluable assets to the Super Eagles, and his partnership with Ndidi has often been the driving force behind Nigeria’s success in recent matches.
Attack: Lookman and Boniface Provide Firepower
In the forward line, Ademola Lookman is expected to start on the left wing. The Atalanta winger has enjoyed a fine season in Serie A, and his ability to cut inside onto his right foot and shoot from range makes him a constant threat. Lookman’s pace and directness will be crucial in stretching the Libyan defense, creating space for Boniface to exploit through the middle.
Boniface, who is set to replace the injured Osimhen, will lead the line. The Leverkusen striker has shown in recent months that he is more than capable of handling the pressure of leading Nigeria’s attack. His physical presence, combined with his intelligent movement and clinical finishing, makes him a nightmare for opposition defenders.
On the right wing, as mentioned earlier, Chidera Ejuke will take over from Samuel Chukwueze. Ejuke’s ability to take on defenders and create chances from wide areas adds another dimension to Nigeria’s attack, and his inclusion in the starting lineup could be a game-changer for the Super Eagles.
Libya’s Desperation for Points
While Nigeria goes into this match as the overwhelming favorite, it would be unwise to underestimate Libya. The Mediterranean Knights have only picked up one point from their opening two games, making this fixture a must-win for them if they hope to keep their AFCON qualification hopes alive.
Libya’s strength lies in their defensive organization and their ability to hit teams on the counter-attack. They will likely adopt a cautious approach against Nigeria, looking to frustrate the Super Eagles and capitalize on any mistakes. For Nigeria, patience will be key. Breaking down a well-organized Libyan defense will require composure and precision in the final third.
As the Super Eagles prepare to take on Libya, there is no denying the importance of this match. For Nigeria, a win would put them on the cusp of AFCON 2025 qualification, while for Libya, anything less than three points could spell the end of their qualification hopes.
With key players like Boniface and Ejuke stepping into the spotlight, Nigeria’s attacking options remain formidable despite Osimhen’s absence. The tactical tweaks by coach Augustine Eguavoen have added a new dimension to Nigeria’s play, and the team will be looking to dominate possession and create chances from the flanks.
However, Libya’s desperation for points means that the Super Eagles cannot afford to be complacent. The Mediterranean Knights may not have the star power of Nigeria, but their resilience and defensive discipline could make this a challenging encounter.
In the end, Nigeria’s quality should shine through, but football is often unpredictable, and Libya will be hoping to spring a surprise. All eyes will be on the Super Eagles as they aim to take a giant step towards AFCON 2025 qualification.