National Teams
2025 AFCON Qualifier: Friday Ekpo hails Eguavoen’s tactical masterclass in Libya win
By Saheed Afolabi
Former Nigeria international, Friday Ekpo, has heaped praise on Super Eagles head coach Augustine Eguavoen for his strategic and tactical brilliance in the 1-0 victory over Libya on Friday in Uyo.
The game was decided by an 86th-minute goal from midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, who capitalized on a cross from Moses Simon to secure the win for Nigeria.
Despite a frustrating encounter dominated by possession, Libya’s defensive approach made it difficult for the Super Eagles to break through until the final moments.
Ekpo applauded Eguavoen for making key tactical adjustments that neutralized Libya’s defensive strategy and for the timely introduction of Dele-Bashiru, whose goal ultimately secured the three points.
“I want to first congratulate the Super Eagles for the win over Libya. It was a hard-fought victory that the team deserved after dominating possession for the entire part of the game,” Ekpo told Complete Sports.
He continued, “I must credit Augustine Eguavoen’s tactical changes in the second half, and it paid off with Dele-Bashiru’s only goal of the game. Libya came into the game with a defensive approach and never showed any sign of attacking the Super Eagles.”
Ekpo noted that Eguavoen’s ability to read the game and make the right substitutions was crucial to the win. “But then, Eguavoen read the game well and brought in players that delivered the three points for Nigeria,” he said.
Looking ahead to the return leg in Benghazi, Ekpo is expecting a more open contest, with Libya likely to adopt a different approach. “I am sure the return leg on Tuesday will be a different ball game because I know the Libyans will come out against Nigeria.”
With this victory, Nigeria tops Group D of the 2025 AFCON qualifiers with seven points from three matches, and Eguavoen will be hoping for another strong performance when they travel to Libya for the second leg.
