The Super Eagles of Nigeria have officially qualified for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after Libya’s 1-0 victory over Rwanda on Thursday at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali. The win confirmed Nigeria’s place in the upcoming continental tournament with two matches remaining in the qualification process.
Nigeria now leads Group D with 10 points, well ahead of the Benin Republic, who sit second with six points. With the top two teams from each group securing qualification, the Super Eagles’ spot in the tournament is guaranteed. Rwanda, following their loss to Libya, remain third with five points, while Libya sits at the bottom with four points, having just one game left to play.
The Super Eagles began their AFCON qualification campaign with a dominant 3-0 win over the Benin Republic. Despite a frustrating draw against Rwanda, the Eagles bounced back with a dramatic late victory against Libya in Uyo. The return leg against Libya, originally scheduled to take place in Benghazi, was never held after the Nigerian team was stranded for over 20 hours at Al Abaq airport due to flight issues, and the players were denied food and water. As a result, Nigeria withdrew from the match, and Libya was penalized by CAF, forfeiting the game and being fined $50,000. Nigeria was awarded a 3-0 victory and three points.
Libya has since appealed the CAF ruling, and the outcome of the appeal may still impact the group standings, but as it stands, the Super Eagles have secured their qualification.
The Eagles are set to face the Benin Republic in their next match, scheduled for 8 pm, as they look to finish the qualification campaign on a high note. Key players such as Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Kelechi Iheanacho are expected to feature in the starting lineup.