Nigeria maintained their grip on Group D of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers with a narrow 1-0 victory over Libya in Uyo on Friday.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s 86th-minute strike, from a Moses Simon cross, proved decisive at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.
The win gave coach Augustine Eguavoen his 15th victory in 25 matches at the helm of the Super Eagles.
Libya’s goalkeeper, Murad Abu Bakr Alwuheeshi, impressed throughout, frustrating the hosts with a series of saves and time-wasting tactics.
Nigeria created several chances, with Alex Iwobi and Victor Boniface both going close in the first half. Captain William Ekong also missed a gilt-edged opportunity from close range.
The breakthrough finally came when Italy-based Dele-Bashiru fired home late on, keeping Nigeria top of the group, one point ahead of Benin.
Victory for Nigeria in Benina on Tuesday would all but secure their place at the 35th Africa Cup of Nations finals in Morocco.