Libya’s Mediterranean Knights have arrived in Uyo, Nigeria, ahead of their must-win Africa Cup of Nations 2025 qualifying match against the Super Eagles. The delegation traveled from Tripoli to Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, before making the road journey to Uyo, where they are set to face Nigeria on Friday, October 11, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

This encounter, part of the third round of Group D qualifiers, is critical for both teams as they aim to secure their spots in the tournament scheduled to be hosted in Morocco. It will also mark the debut of newly appointed Libyan coach Nasser Al-Hadhiri, who took over from Serbian Milutin Sredojevic after Libya’s disappointing start in the opening two rounds.

The Knights view this match as an opportunity to turn their fortunes around in Group D. Al-Hadhiri and his squad, who conducted their final training session in Tripoli before their journey, will have their first practice in Uyo on Wednesday morning to acclimatize and make any necessary tactical adjustments ahead of this high-stakes encounter.

On the other hand, the Nigerian Super Eagles are well into their preparations. Interim coach Austin Eguavoen, who is managing the team following Finidi George’s departure, held the squad’s first training session on Tuesday evening.

So far, twenty players have reported to camp, including key figures such as Ballon d’Or nominee Ademola Lookman, Fulham’s Alex Iwobi, and Calvin Bassey, alongside Nottingham Forest stars Taiwo Awoniyi and Ola Aina. Defensive stalwarts William Troost-Ekong, Moses Simon, Maduka Okoye, and others also participated in the session.

Notably absent from camp are Sevilla’s Kelechi Iheanacho, Chidera Ejuke, and Fenerbahçe’s Bright Osayi-Samuel, who are expected to join the team shortly.

The Super Eagles currently sit on four points after their opening two matches and are eager to build on their solid start to the qualifiers, especially with the advantage of playing at home. Following the Uyo showdown, the reverse fixture is scheduled for just four days later on October 15 at the Martyrs of February Stadium in Benghazi, Libya.