Libya National Team Commences AFCON Qualifying Preparations Ahead of Clash with Nigeria

As the countdown begins for the highly anticipated Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match against Nigeria, the Libya National Team has resumed training in earnest. The squad convened on Monday, October 2, 2024, to start preparations for their upcoming encounter scheduled for October 11, 2025, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Nigeria.

Under the new leadership of head coach Nasser Al-Hadhiri, along with his assistant coaches, Tunisian Akram Al-Hammami and Aboubaker Harak, the Mediterranean Knights held their first training session in Tripoli. This marks a significant moment for Libya as they aim to enhance their performance in the AFCON qualifiers and improve their standing within Group D.

The Libyan team is set to travel to Nigeria, with plans to arrive in Abuja on October 7, just a few days before the match. Following their stay in Abuja, they will make their way to Uyo, where they will face the formidable Nigerian side, known as the Super Eagles.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s head coach, Augustine Eguavoen, has yet to announce his squad for the upcoming doubleheader matches. The second leg of the qualifier is scheduled for October 15 at the Martyrs of February Stadium in Benghazi, Libya, making this series of matches crucial for both teams.

Nigeria started their AFCON qualifying campaign on a positive note, achieving a convincing 3-0 victory over Benin Republic on September 7. This triumph was followed by a challenging match against Rwanda, where they settled for a goalless draw in Kigali three days later. As a result, Nigeria currently sits atop Group D with four points.

Libya, however, is at the bottom of the standings, having secured only one point from their opening match—a 1-1 draw against Rwanda at the Martyrs of February Stadium on September 4. They subsequently faced a setback, losing 2-1 to Benin Republic at Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan six days later. As it stands, Benin Republic occupies the second spot in the group with three points, followed closely by Rwanda with two points.

The upcoming matches are pivotal for both teams as they strive for qualification in the prestigious tournament. For Libya, the clash against Nigeria is not just another game; it represents an opportunity to revitalize their campaign and gain valuable points. With both teams eager to secure a favorable outcome, fans can expect an exciting showdown filled with intensity and competitive spirit.

As the date approaches, the anticipation builds for what promises to be a thrilling encounter between Libya and Nigeria, with both teams looking to assert their dominance in the AFCON qualifying series.