2025 AFCONQ: William Troost Ekong expects tough return leg clash against Libya

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

After a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Libya in Matchday three of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifiers, Nigeria’s senior men’s national team is now focused on the return leg in Benina.

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s 86th-minute goal, set up by Moses Simon, handed Coach Augustine Eguavoen his 15th victory in charge of the Super Eagles, securing all three points for Nigeria in Uyo on Friday.

Captain William Troost-Ekong expects an even tougher clash when the Super Eagles face Libya in the return leg next week in Benina.

“The experience from this first game should help us ahead of the next game,” Ekong said after the match. “I think it will be something similar, but more difficult because it’s going to be hostile there. Everything will be made hard for us, but we will be ready.”

The Super Eagles are in a strong position in Group D, having topped the standings with seven points from four games. A win in Benina would seal their qualification for the next AFCON tournament.

“We knew how important this first match was, especially with it being a double header,” Ekong added. “Libya came here to get a point, and they played very defensively. The pressure was a privilege for us because we know what’s at stake. We are a team that should be winning almost every game, especially when we play at home.”

Ekong acknowledged that the Libyans had put up a solid defensive performance, frustrating the Super Eagles for much of the match. Despite dominating possession, Nigeria struggled to break down the Libyan defense until Dele-Bashiru’s late intervention.

“In the first half, we pinned them in their half, had lots of possession, and tried to break down the block. They had lots of players behind the ball, and credit to them for defending well,” Ekong said. “It wasn’t easy for us, but we managed to find the breakthrough in the end.”

Ekong also spoke about the importance of improving and being more clinical in front of goal for the return leg.

“We didn’t expect it to be that tough, but we knew we would be superior,” he admitted. “We need to be more clinical and try to convert even half chances into goals. If we had scored earlier, the game would have opened up more. But we have to be happy with the win and focus on the positives.”

Looking ahead to the second leg in Libya, Ekong emphasized the significance of staying focused and embracing the pressure that comes with playing for Nigeria.

“Playing for Nigeria always comes with pressure, but that’s something you have to embrace with lots of expectations. We know what’s at stake — we want to be at the AFCON, and it’s in our hands now. Libya will be fighting for their chances, but we are determined to go there and seal our ticket.”

With the Super Eagles now just one step away from AFCON qualification, the return leg in Benina promises to be another thrilling encounter as Nigeria aims to book its place in the continental tournament.