Libya’s Mediterranean Knights have arrived in Uyo, Nigeria, ahead of a key Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifying match against Nigeria’s Super Eagles.
The Libyan team traveled from Tripoli to Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, before making their way by road to Uyo. They are set to face the Super Eagles on Friday, October 11, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
This match is part of the third round of Group D qualifiers and is a crucial game for both teams as they aim to secure their spot in the AFCON tournament, which will be hosted in Morocco.
For Libya, this fixture marks the debut of their new coach, Nasser Al-Hadhiri, who took over after the dismissal of Serbian coach Milutin Sredojevic due to poor results in the earlier qualifying rounds. Libya has struggled so far in Group D, and the team views this game as a chance to revive their campaign and move closer to qualification.
Al-Hadhiri and his squad, who completed their final training in Tripoli before departing, are scheduled to hold their first practice session in Uyo on Wednesday morning. This will allow the players to adjust to the environment and make the necessary tactical changes for the high-pressure match.
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On the other hand, Nigeria’s Super Eagles are already deep into their preparations. Interim coach Austin Eguavoen is currently leading the team after the exit of Finidi George. The Super Eagles held their first training session on Tuesday evening, with 20 players reporting to camp.
Key players include Ballon d’Or nominee Ademola Lookman, Fulham’s Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, Nottingham Forest stars Taiwo Awoniyi and Ola Aina, and veteran defender William Troost-Ekong. Other notable figures like Moses Simon and goalkeeper Maduka Okoye were also present for the training.
However, a few players, including Sevilla’s Kelechi Iheanacho, Chidera Ejuke, and Fenerbahçe’s Bright Osayi-Samuel, were yet to join the squad but are expected to arrive soon.
The Super Eagles, with four points from their first two matches, are determined to continue their strong start in the qualifiers. Playing on home soil, they hope to capitalize on the advantage and secure a victory.
After this match in Uyo, the teams will meet again in the return fixture on October 15 at the Martyrs of February Stadium in Benghazi, Libya.
