Ex-Eagles tasks team on tactical discipline ahead of Libya clash

Waidi Akanni, a former Super Eagles defender, has advised that tactical disciple and adherence to coaches’ instructions are key to Super Eagles’ triumph against Libya in Uyo on Saturday.
Akanni spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria on Friday ahead of the crunch African Cup of Nations double-header qualifiers between the Super Eagles and Libya.
Libya stand on top of Group E after two rounds of matches with four points, while the Super Eagles are third with three points.
South Africa are second on goal difference, having amassed same number of points as Libya, while Seychelles are bottom of the group without a win.
However, the Super Eagles could soar to the top of the group if they take maximum points against their North African opponents.
Akanni, a former head of the Lagos State Football Association, says the task is possible to accomplish, if the players play to instruction.
He said: “The Super Eagles should approach the games with seriousness.
“The players must be ready and willing to play to instruction and they must be tactical.
“I am sure the coaches have their game plan and template for winning the matches because taking the six points at stake is crucial to Nigeria’s qualification.”
Nigeria will first face Libya at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, Akwa Ibom on October 13 before filing out against the same foes three days later in Tunisia.
Akanni, however, warned that it would be disastrous to judge the Libyan side by the political instability their country is currently facing.
He said: “Don’t let anybody deceive you, both legs won’t be easy.
“Libya are a good footballing nation no matter what is happening in their country.
“Playing their home game in Tunisia won’t be an advantage for Nigeria.
“In fact, the entire North Africa will support them.
“They have players playing outside the continent and have shown team spirit.
“They will be a hard nut to crack both in Uyo and Tunisia.”
Kick-off time for the first of the two-legged clash with Libya is 4.00 p.m. on Saturday.