Three goals from Odion Ighalo against the Mediterreanian Knights of Libya gave Nigeria a glimpse of hope to play at the African Cup of Nations championship in Cameroon next year. Nigeria had failed to qualify for the last two Nations Cups in 2015 and 2017, and the Libyans came to the Nest of Bird Stadium, Uyo determined to compound the Super Eahles woed. But with a fourth goal from Samuel Kalu boosted Nigerians hopes of reaching Cameroon 2019 with a convincing win over previous Group E leaders Libya.
Former Watford star Ighalo, now at Chinese side Changchun Yatai, set the Eagles on their way with a penalty in the fourth minute.The 29-year-old struck again in the second half with a goal after 58 minutes and completed his hattrick with 20 minutes remaining. Samuel Kalu made it 4-0 for the hosts with a 90th minute strike.
Speaking after the match, stand in captain, Ahmed Musa said the team gave its best but the biggest task would be in Tunisia on Tuesday.
“It was a good game but the Libyans came prepared,” Musa said. “We were conscious of our position on the log so we were did not want to take any chances. But what is important to us is the three points. We will go to Tunisia and finish up the job.
” Libya is still in the game just like South Africa. But our mission is to play in the 2019 AFCON finals in Cameroon.”
Libya’s preparations had been hampered after the sudden departure of their coach Adel Amrouche just days before the qualifier. But they still managed to give the Eagles a good fight.
Earlier on Saturday afternoon, Group E leaders, South Africa achieved their biggest victory when they beat Seychelles 6-0 in Johannesburg.
The previous widest winning margin by Bafana Bafana was 5-0 at home to Guatemala in a friendly as they prepared to host the 2010 World Cup.
Three goals in a frenetic four-minute spell during the first half set South Africa on their way, starting with an own-goal from Nigel Hoareau after 23 minutes.
Thulani Hlatshwayo scored again for the hosts two minutes later with Lebo Mothiba adding a third after 27 minutes.
