Ekong: Super Eagles expect hostile atmosphere in Libya

Published on by Andrew Randa

Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong, has outlined the team’s objective as they prepare to travel to Libya for the second leg of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, stating that the goal is to secure all three points, despite acknowledging the challenge ahead.

In the first leg, Nigeria struggled to break down a resolute Libyan defence, with their breakthrough only arriving in the 87th minute.

Substitute Fisayo Dele-Bashiru netted the decisive goal from a well-placed Moses Simon assist, sealing a crucial victory for Austin Eguavoen’s side and earning their second win in the qualification series.

Ekong: Super Eagles expect hostile atmosphere in Libya
Photo by Icon Sport

With the Super Eagles now sitting at the top of Group D, they head into the return leg in Benina with renewed confidence.

Super Eagles expect hostile crowd in Libya

Ekong noted that the team’s experience from the first encounter will help them approach the Libyan side with better preparation.

“I think we were superior today, and the experience we gained from the first game should prepare us better for the second game, “Ekong said.

“We had to take the game like a big puzzle to solve the problem of how we can get the chances.”

Looking ahead, the Super Eagles captain expects an even more challenging outing in Libya, both on and off the pitch.

Ekong: Super Eagles expect hostile atmosphere in Libya
Photo by Icon Sport

The absence of the home crowd support, which proved instrumental in the first leg, will add to the difficulty.

“I think it will be something similar to the first and probably more difficult,” Ekong admitted. “We won't have our lovely fans here to cheer us on, so it is going to be very hostile there”.

The Super Eagles maintain their position at the top of the group with seven points, one point clear of Benin Republic, who recorded a 3-0 victory over Rwanda in the other group fixture.

Ekong: Super Eagles expect hostile atmosphere in Libya

Andrew Randa

Andrew Randa is a veteran Nigerian sports journalist with over 20 years of experience covering the beautiful game across Africa. Andrew served as a Media Officer for Nigeria's U-20 Men's National Team for three years, offering a unique perspective on the future stars of Nigerian football.

Beyond reporting, Andrew is a pioneer in sports graphics creation within Nigeria. His expertise extends to sports kit design, making him a true multi-faceted talent in the African sports landscape.

Andrew's experience is vast, with collaborations encompassing prestigious names like Kickoff, SuperSport, the NFF (Nigeria Football Federation), and the NPFL (Nigeria Professional Football League)