ABUJA- Football fans in Abuja are optimistic of the Super Eagles qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in 2025 in Morocco.
The News Agency of Nigeria ( NAN) reports that Nigeria defeated the Mediterranean Knights of Libya 1-0 through a Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s 86th minute strike, off a cross from Moses Simon on Friday at the Godswill Akpabio stadium in Uyo.
The fans who spoke with NAN on Saturday in Abuja, said with the Eagles victory, there’s no doubt about the team’s strength and determination to qualify.
They urged them to maintain the momentum to overcome upcoming matches ahead of them.
Mohammed Abubakar, a football fan said that the victory against Libya was a good step for qualification for the AFCON.
“ This win is a testament to the team’s strength, considering their previous performances against Libya, with four victories out of five meetings.
“The Super Eagles victory against Libya has also demonstrated their capability, leaving fans hopeful for their chances to qualify.
“ The Super Eagles are now one step closer to qualifying. Their starting lineup featured talented players like Victor Boniface, Alex Iwobi, and Ademola Lookman, who are expected to drive the team’s success and I hope they continue to the end, ” he said .
On her part, Abiola Abiodun, said that the win has brought the team closer to qualification, a feat every Nigerian desired.
Sikemi Adaramolugbe, said that the challenge ahead of the Eagles would be Benin Republic, which has six points , adding that their next match could be crucial in determining the group’s leader.
“ Nigeria will face other strong teams in the group including Rwanda and Libya again. Overall, Nigeria’s chances in the AFCON qualifiers is promising.
“But they will need to maintain the momentum and overcome the challenges ahead to secure their ticket ,” she said.
Kafayat Abdulrahman, a footballer said that Eagles should step up their in order to overcome Libya on Tuesday.
“ With their recent performance, Nigeria has a good chance of securing a win.
“ They are currently leading Group D with seven points, and a victory against Libya in the return leg on Tuesday would bring them closer to qualifying for the 2025 AFCON,” she said.
She said that historically, Nigeria has had the upper hand against Libya.
“ Although star striker like Victor Osimhen and Olisa Ndah’s absence had an impact on Nigeria’s game but in all, there are challenges ahead.
“ Nigeria’s chances of winning look bright. I believe that Nigeria is determined to secure three points again,” she said.
Tolulope Oguntimileyin, a football analyst said that the team’s new found confidence had raised hopes to unprecedented heights.
“ This team is capable of reaching new heights, they cannot afford to regress. Coach Austin Eguavoen must be bold, embrace the attacking strength of the Super Eagles”, he said.
On his part, Sunday Ocholi, a coach said some Nigerian football fans were displeased and have taken to social media to express their dissatisfaction after the team was not given a penalty in the first half of their match against Libya.
Nevertheless, Ocholi said the Eagles have been on the better side in their 2025 AFCON qualifiers first leg match against Libya.
“ Ballon d’Or nominee Ademola Lookman went down in the box after a Libyan defender impeded his run in the box, but Malawian referee Godfrey Nkhakananga overlooked it.
“ The Eagles created other scoring opportunities, but Libyan Mourad Al Wuhayshi was up to the task, producing two brilliant saves to keep the scores level at halftime. But in all, I was happy we won,” he said .
Other fans have advised the technical crew of the Eagles to work on the team’s goal scoring ability. (NAN)
