Libya head coach Nasser Al-Hadhirinew and captain Faisel Al Badri have given different views ahead of Friday’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Group D qualifier against Nigeria’s Super Eagles in Uyo.
Softfootball notes that Libya arrived for the fixture under pressure after a poor start to their AFCON qualification campaign, with the Mediterranean Knights still searching for their first win in the group.
Al-Hadhirinew recently took charge of the team after former Serbian coach Milutin Sredojević, popularly known as Micho, was dismissed following Libya’s disappointing opening results.
Libya began their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Rwanda before losing 2-1 to Benin Republic in their second match. Those results left the Libyan Football Federation unhappy and led to a change in the coaching setup.
Ahead of the clash at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Al-Hadhirinew appeared to play down Libya’s chances by praising the Super Eagles as the strongest team in Africa.
The Libya coach said Nigeria’s squad is filled with experienced players based in top European leagues, adding that the Super Eagles have quality across every department.
He also pointed out that Libya’s squad is largely made up of young players from the domestic league, while Nigeria can call on stars who play in Italy, England, Spain, France, Germany, and other major leagues.
Despite admitting that winning in Uyo would be difficult, Al-Hadhirinew said Libya would try to improve on their previous result in Nigeria, where they suffered a 4-0 defeat.
He also dismissed the idea that Victor Osimhen’s absence would weaken Nigeria significantly, insisting that the Super Eagles have enough quality beyond one player.
However, Libya captain Faisel Al Badri sounded more confident. While acknowledging Nigeria’s strength, he made it clear that the Mediterranean Knights did not travel to Uyo just to participate.
Al Badri said Libya are aware of the challenge ahead but remain determined to fight for all three points against the Super Eagles.
