Fisayo Dele-Bashiru came off the bench to secure Nigeria a 1-0 victory over Libya in their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Uyo on Friday. The Mediterranean Knights spent much of the match on the defensive, but the Super Eagles eventually broke through.
The win propels Nigeria to 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, converting a precise low cross from Moses Simon.
Before the decisive goal, Ademola Lookman had a goal disallowed for offside, a decision that drew protests from some fans in the stadium.
Nigeria dominated possession from start to finish in a game where clear scoring opportunities were hard to come by. Coach Austin Eguavoen fielded a three-man attack of Victor Boniface, Ademola Lookman, and Moses Simon in the absence of injured Victor Osimhen.
Moses Simon was given the nod ahead of Samuel Chukwueze, who had started the last two matches for the Eagles.
Stanley Nwabali remained in goal, with Ola Aina, William Troost-Ekong, Bruno Onyemaechi, and Calvin Bassey anchoring the defense. Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Alex Iwobi formed the midfield for the three-time African champions.
Nigeria will take on Libya again in the return leg on Tuesday at the Benina Martyrs Stadium in Libya.