Dele-Bashiru Leads Nigeria to AFCON Victory Over Libya

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru came off the bench to give Nigeria a 1-0 win over Libya in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in Uyo, after the Mediterranean Knights spent the majority of the game in their half defending.

The result moves the Super Eagles to the top of Group D, 7 points ahead of Benin (6), Rwanda (2), and Libya (1).

Dele-Bashiru, who replaced Alex Iwobi in the 74th minute, scored in the 86th minute after connecting with Moses Simon’s low cross.

The goal by the Lazio player shook the North Africans’ resolve, who used a variety of tactics, including time-wasting, to hold the Eagles at bay.

Prior to that goal, the referee called Ademola Lookman’s goal offside, which some spectators in the stadium protested.

In a game with few goals, the Nigerian squad dominated play from start to finish.

In place of the injured Victor Osimhen, Coach Austin Eguavoen went with a three-man attack led by Victor Boniface, Ademola Lookman, and Moses Simon.

Simon replaced Samuel Chukwueze, who had started the previous two games for the Eagles, in the starting lineup against Libya.

Stanley Nwabali continued in goal, while Ola Aina, William Troost-Ekong, Bruno Onyemaechi, and Calvin Bassey remained in defence.

Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Alex Iwobi held down the middle for the three-time African champs.

Nigeria will face Libya in the return match on Tuesday at Benina Martyrs Stadium in Libya.