Head coach of Libya, Nasser Al-Hadiri, has admitted to the challenges of facing a strong opposition like the Super Eagles in the upcoming African Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Speaking ahead of the upcoming doubleheader against the 2023 AFCON finalists, the newly appointed gaffer cited his team's poor preparation and notable absentees in his squad as major causes for concern.

“We have not yet reached the required level of readiness to face a strong team like Nigeria,” he told a press conference.

“The team were not in good shape before I took over.

“The absence of several players in our first training sessions has made it difficult to establish a comprehensive tactical plan for the game.”

Al-Hadhiri, who was recently appointed as head coach for Libya, faces a daunting prospect as he takes on a star-studded Super Eagles team away from home in his first game in charge.

The Super Eagles will tackle the Knights of the Mediterranean on Friday, October 11, at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, before hosting Nigeria in the return fixture on Tuesday, October 15.