Nigeria Names Squad for AFCON Qualifiers Against Libya

The Super Eagles have unveiled their 23-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON qualifying matches against the Mediterranean Knights of Libya. Key players like William Ekong, Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Wilfred Ndidi, and Alex Iwobi have been called up by head coach Augustine Eguavoen. Injured striker Victor Osimhen, who is currently sidelined, will not feature in the upcoming games. After a long absence, The squad also welcomes Chidera Ejuke, while Kelechi Iheanacho and in-form winger Moses Simon retain their places.

The Super Eagles will host the first match on October 11 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo before travelling to Benghazi for the return leg on October 15. Players must report to Uyo by October 7 to prepare for the fixtures.

Editorial

The latest squad announcement for the AFCON qualifiers against Libya brings excitement and concern. While the team boasts some of Nigeria’s most reliable and talented players, including Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman, and Wilfred Ndidi, the absence of Victor Osimhen due to injury is a significant blow to the squad. Osimhen has been a pivotal force in the Super Eagles’ attack, and his exclusion raises questions about how Nigeria will cope in front of the goal.

Despite this setback, the inclusion of players like Chidera Ejuke and Kelechi Iheanacho brings hope that Nigeria will still have the firepower needed to secure vital wins. Eguavoen’s decision to maintain a core group of experienced players such as Moses Simon, William Ekong, and Olaoluwa Aina ensures a sense of continuity and leadership on the field.

We also can’t ignore the tactical depth this squad offers. With wing-backs like Aina and Bruno Onyemaechi, the Super Eagles have strong options in both defence and attack. Midfielders like Ndidi and Onyedika provide a solid foundation, while forwards such as Awoniyi and Boniface will be expected to step up in Osimhen’s absence.

As the team prepares to face Libya, it’s essential to focus on the strengths available. With a solid defence, a versatile midfield, and promising attacking options, the Super Eagles have what it takes to get positive results. But the pressure is on, and we must be realistic about the challenges ahead. This campaign will test the depth and resilience of the squad, and every player must rise to the occasion if Nigeria is to succeed in qualifying for the 2025 AFCON.

Did You Know?

1. The Super Eagles have won the Africa Cup of Nations three times in 1980, 1994, and 2013.
2. Victor Osimhen is one of Nigeria’s highest-scoring players in recent AFCON qualifying campaigns.
3. Nigeria’s national football team has consistently ranked among Africa’s top five teams for over two decades.
4. The Super Eagles’ highest-ever FIFA world ranking was fifth in April 1994.
5. The last time Nigeria played Libya in an AFCON qualifier, they secured a 4-0 victory in Uyo.