Interim Super Eagles coach, Augustine Eguavoen, shared his thoughts on the team’s narrow 1-0 victory over Libya in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier held on Friday.
The match, played at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, was decided by a last-minute goal from Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, who found the back of the net in the 90th minute.
In his post-match comments, Eguavoen acknowledged that while his team dominated the game, they fell short of his expectations in terms of goals.
He highlighted the Libyan side’s defensive strategy, which made it difficult for the Super Eagles to break through for most of the match.
“I expected us to score more goals. Overall, we are happy to maintain our top spot. I was feeling bad, but we kept pushing and progressing. Emotions were high. Libya defended in numbers and we are happy to win,” said Eguavoen, reflecting on the Mediterranean Knights’ resolute defense.
The coach went on to describe the difference between the team’s performance in both halves, noting a marked improvement in the second period.
“We were a bit slow in the first half, but the second half was good; we were faster and we got the goal,” he told reporters.
Despite the close scoreline, the win secures Nigeria’s place at the top of their qualifying group, bringing them one step closer to booking a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
