U23 AFCONQ Libya 2 Nigeria 0 : North Africans Stun Star-Studded Defending Champions

Nigeria began their AFCON U-23 double-header qualifier versus Libya with a 2-0 defeat at the Stade de Ben Guerdane on Wednesday evening.

Coach Imama Amapakabo's midfield and attack was hugely dominated by foreign-based pros the likes of Arsenal's Kelechi Nwakali, Liverpool's Taiwo Awoniyi, Villareal's Samuel Chukwueze and a host of others who starred from the blast of the whistle.

The North African nation took the lead after just seven minutes when striker, Zakaria Alharaish scored to put his team ahead following a quick move which startled the Dream Team.

Things got worse for Nigeria after goalkeeper Adamu Abubakar was dismissed in the closing stages of the first half for handling outside the area as the Nigeria defence showed some nervy and uninspiring displays in closing down their pacy opponents.

While Dennis Bonaventure made way in a tactical change after the setback, Orewale Oremade was brought on to mind the goal but that did little to stem the flow of the Libyans as they doubled their lead in the second half after another quick breakaway to leave Nigeria with a mountain to climb in the return fixture.

 Nigeria will battle the North Africans in the reverse tie at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba on March 25.