2025 AFCON Qualifier: Victor Ikpeba upbeat about Super Eagles beating Libya

By Saheed Afolabi

Former Nigeria international Victor Ikpeba has expressed his strong belief that the Super Eagles will triumph over Libya in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

Ikpeba, who enjoyed a successful career at AS Monaco, believes Nigeria has the quality to dominate the Mediterranean Knights in both legs of their double-header, first in Uyo and then in Benghazi.

“I believe the Super Eagles have what it takes to punish Libya in both legs,” Ikpeba said, speaking to SuperSport.

“Libya will come to defend with all they’ve got and rely on counter-attacks. They may be missing some key players, but we shouldn’t be concerned about that. Our focus must be on exploiting their weaknesses.”

Ikpeba added that while Nigeria must respect Libya’s approach, they should not be distracted by the North Africans’ defensive strategy. He stressed the importance of staying focused and capitalizing on every opportunity.

“Libya’s primary aim in the first leg will be to defend, but we have the attacking quality to break them down,” he said. “We must take advantage of any gaps and weaknesses they present. It’s vital that we execute our game plan efficiently.”

Ikpeba also acknowledged the weight of criticism the Super Eagles have faced following their underwhelming performances in the World Cup qualifiers as he believes the team is eager to make amends and regain their rhythm, starting with a strong showing in the AFCON qualifiers.

“The Super Eagles are tired of the criticisms following the World Cup qualifiers, and they now want to get it right. This is an opportunity to silence the doubters,” Ikpeba added. “We need to get the job done on Friday, and that will set us up for another win in Libya.”

Nigeria currently leads Group D with four points from two matches, while Libya sits at the bottom with just one point. With the momentum and quality at their disposal, Ikpeba is confident that the Super Eagles will secure crucial victories in both fixtures.