Nigerian midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru scored a crucial late goal to secure a 1-0 victory over Libya in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying tie at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Friday.
The Lazio midfielder, who came on as a substitute in the second half, found the back of the net in the 85th minute, giving Nigeria their second win in three games of the series and maintaining their top position in Group D.
Nigeria dominated the match, keeping Libya on the defensive for most of the encounter. The visitors resorted to delaying tactics and played defensively, but Nigeria created several early chances to break the deadlock, including a controversial penalty appeal that was denied by the referee.
Despite Libya’s defensive approach, Nigeria continued to press, with Austin Eguavoen’s team missing a few opportunities. Libya’s goalkeeper, Murad Al Wuhayshi, played a key role in keeping the scoreline level, even colliding with Nigeria’s Victor Boniface in the 48th minute.
In the 83rd minute, Ademola Lookman thought he had scored the winning goal, but it was ruled out for offside, sparking protests from the Nigerian bench and the crowd. While replays suggested that the decision was marginal, the absence of VAR left fans frustrated.
With the game seemingly heading for a draw, Dele-Bashiru’s late strike proved to be the difference. He capitalized on a defensive lapse from the Libyans, latching onto a pass from Moses Simon to find the back of the net. The Libya goalkeeper was left helpless as the ball drifted past him into the net.
Nigeria’s defense held firm in added time to secure the vital win. With this result, Nigeria maintained their pole position in Group D with seven points, one ahead of Benin Republic. Libya remains at the bottom of the group with just one point.
