Nigeria prepares to face Libya in the AFCON qualifiers, looking to capitalize on their current group lead. With Victor Osimhen out injured, Victor Boniface is under pressure to perform. Libya is struggling, but Nigeria must remain cautious according to former striker Victor Ikpeba. The match is scheduled for October 11, 2023, in Uyo, Nigeria.
Nigeria is poised to strengthen its position in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers as they prepare to face Libya in a crucial double-header this month. Having secured four points from their initial two matches in September, the Super Eagles currently sit at the top of Group D. This follows a period of struggle during their World Cup qualifying campaign, providing some renewed optimism for the national team. On the contrary, Libya enters this match amidst a three-game winless streak, with their latest setback being a defeat to Benin. Their head coach, Nasser Al-Hadiri, has expressed a cautious approach, indicating their strategy may focus on securing a draw in the first encounter taking place in Uyo. Despite Libya’s predicament, it is imperative that Nigeria remains vigilant. Former striker Victor Ikpeba emphasized the need for respect towards their opponents, noting, “You have to respect Libya, they will come down to defend with their lives and rely on counterattacks.” He added that while Libya may be missing important players, Nigeria should not dwell on their issues. In terms of personnel, Nigeria will be without star striker Victor Osimhen, who is not expected to return to full fitness until late October, placing the burden on Victor Boniface to deliver. Boniface, who has found success with Bayer Leverkusen by notching six goals in nine appearances this season, has yet to score for the national team in eight outings. The squad, despite missing defender Olisa Ndah, boasts a wealth of talent, including captain William Troost-Ekong, Fulham’s Alex Iwobi, AC Milan’s Samuel Chukwueze, and Ballon d’Or nominee Ademola Lookman from Atalanta. Bright Osayi-Samuel has returned from injury, and Sevilla winger Chidera Ejuke has the opportunity to earn his first cap since the 2021 AFCON. The anticipated lineup for the fixture is as follows: Nigeria Predicted XI (3-4-3): Nwabali (GK) — Ajayi, Troost-Ekong, Bassey — Aina, Ndidi, Iwobi, Onyemaechi — Chukwueze, Boniface, Lookman Full Squad: Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali, Maduka Okoye, Amas Obasogie Defenders: William Ekong, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina, Benjamin Tanimu Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi, Raphael Onyedika, Alhassan Yusuf, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi Forwards: Samuel Chukwueze, Chidera Ejuke, Ademola Lookman, Kelechi Iheanacho, Victor Boniface, Moses Simon, Taiwo Awoniyi This match will take place at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Nigeria, with kickoff scheduled for 5:00 p.m. local time. For fans in various regions, the match will be broadcast as follows: USA: beIN SPORTS XTRA (Streaming: Fubo, Fanatiz, beIN Sports Connect, Tubi) Canada: beIN SPORTS XTRA (Streaming: Fubo, Fanatiz, beIN Sports Connect) UK: No specific channel listed (Streaming: bet365) Australia: No specific channel listing India: No specific channel listing Supporters are eager to witness how the Super Eagles will manage the expectations and challenges in these pivotal qualifiers for the AFCON.
The Nigeria national football team, colloquially known as the Super Eagles, seeks to secure qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) following a strong start to their qualifying campaign. The team’s recent performance has been promising, with points accumulated in previous matches. Conversely, their opponent, Libya, has struggled recently and will attempt to turn their fortunes around in this crucial double-header. The absence of star players on both sides may affect their respective strategies and outcomes during these fixtures. Nigeria’s coach, Augustine Eguavoen, has a profile of talented players to call upon, which could prove advantageous in their quest for qualification.
In conclusion, Nigeria faces a vital opportunity to solidify their lead in Group D of the AFCON qualifiers as they encounter Libya. With key players unavailable, the team will need to rely on emerging talents like Victor Boniface. Maintaining respect for their opponent’s capabilities, Nigeria must focus on securing a victory to advance towards the AFCON finals. The match is set for October 11 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium and will be widely available for viewing across various platforms.
Original Source: www.sportingnews.com
