Victoria Mbangwa
The road to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) continues for Nigeria’s Super Eagles, who are preparing for back-to-back qualifying clashes with Libya.
The two teams are set to face off twice in the span of four days, with the second encounter scheduled to take place at the Martyrs of Benina Stadium in Libya, marking a pivotal moment for both sides in Group D.
Libya, who currently sit at the bottom of the group, will be hoping to revive their AFCON campaign when they host Nigeria on October 15. The venue, the Martyrs of Benina Stadium, is located just outside Benghazi and is a 10,000-capacity arena with an artificial turf.
Once known as Hugo Chávez Stadium, the facility will provide a challenging environment for the Super Eagles, as Libya look to turn their fortunes around after a difficult start to their qualifiers.
Before heading to Libya, the Super Eagles will welcome their North African counterparts to the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on October 11 for Matchday 3 of the qualifiers. The Uyo clash, which kicks off at 5 p.m.
Nigerian time, is expected to be a high-stakes affair as Nigeria seeks to solidify their lead at the top of the group. The second leg in Benina will take place under the lights, with the kickoff set for 8 p.m. Nigerian time.
Libya’s campaign has been less than stellar, as they remain winless after two matches. A 1-1 home draw against Rwanda, played at the Tripoli International Stadium, and a 2-1 defeat to Benin Republic in Abidjan have left the Libyans with just one point. In contrast, Nigeria sits atop Group D with four points, thanks to a dominant 3-0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo and a hard-fought goalless draw against Rwanda in Kigali.
The upcoming encounters will be crucial for both teams. For Nigeria, it’s a chance to maintain their momentum and secure qualification, while Libya faces a must-win situation to stay in contention for a spot at AFCON 2025.
