Fisayo Dele-Bashiru came off the bench to secure a 1-0 victory for Nigeria over Libya in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in Uyo, as the Mediterranean Knights spent most of the match defending in their half.
The win places the Super Eagles at the top of Group D with 7 points, ahead of Benin Republic (6), Rwanda (2), and Libya (1).
Dele-Bashiru, who replaced Alex Iwobi in the 74th minute, found the back of the net in the 86th minute, connecting with a low cross from Moses Simon to break Libya’s stubborn defense.
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Earlier, the referee had disallowed a goal by Ademola Lookman for offside, a decision that sparked protests from some fans in the stadium.
Nigeria dominated possession throughout the match, but struggled to convert their chances into goals.
Coach Austin Eguavoen employed a three-man attack featuring Victor Boniface, Ademola Lookman, and Moses Simon, stepping in for the injured Victor Osimhen.
Simon replaced Samuel Chukwueze in the starting line-up, while Stanley Nwabali retained his position in goal.
The defensive setup remained unchanged with Ola Aina, William Troost-Ekong, Bruno Onyemaechi, and Calvin Bassey.
In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Alex Iwobi controlled the game for the three-time African champions.
Nigeria will face Libya again in the return leg on Tuesday at Benina Martyrs Stadium in Libya.
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