-Deborah Akinyosoye
Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru was the hero of the night when his 85th-minute strike gave Nigeria a 1-0 win over Libya at 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match.
Nigeria’s victory over Libya keeps them at the top of Group D with seven points from their first three matches, after Benin defeated Rwanda 3-0.
Dele-Bashiru, who replaced Alex Iwobi in the 74th minute, scored in the 86th minute after connecting with a low cross from Moses Simon.
The Lazio man’s goal broke the resilience of the North Africans, who resorted to various tactics, including time-wasting, to hold the Eagles back.
Earlier in the game, the referee ruled out a goal by Ademola Lookman for offside, a decision that led to protests from some fans at the stadium.
The Super Eagles will travel to Libya to face the same opponent on Tuesday — a match where win would nearly secure their spot at the 2025 tournament in Morocco.