Augustine Eguavoen, interim coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, has acknowledged the difficult test his team will face against Libya in their upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifier. Despite this, he remains confident in Nigeria’s ability to claim victory.

The Super Eagles currently top Group D with four points from two matches and are set to play the Mediterranean Knights in Uyo this Friday. Libya, on the other hand, sits at the bottom of the group with just one point, but Eguavoen is not underestimating their potential.

“They will come here ready to fight. We are not focusing on the return match right now; our attention is fully on the game this Friday,” Eguavoen emphasized during a media briefing.

He highlighted the importance of securing all three points in the upcoming fixture, stating, “It’s crucial that we finish the task as soon as possible.”

While expressing optimism, Eguavoen also voiced his disappointment over the absence of star striker Victor Osimhen, who sustained a muscle injury during a recent match with Galatasaray against Kasimpasa. Osimhen’s injury will see him sidelined for at least three weeks, ruling him out of the key AFCON qualifiers.

“It’s a significant loss. We all know how vital Osimhen is to the team, but we have other capable players who can step up,” Eguavoen said. “Although he’s not physically with us, his spirit remains with the team.”

Nigeria will face Libya on October 11 and 15, with hopes of securing a place in the AFCON 2025 tournament.