Gernot Rohr wary of backlash from Libya

Ahmed Musa of Nigeria challenged by Ahmed Al Magashi of Libya during the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier football match between Nigeria and Libya at Akwa Ibom International Stadium, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria on 13 October 2018 @Kabiru Abubakar/BackpagePix

by Graeme Jackson

Tuesday Oct 16, 2018. 10:16

Nigeria manager Gernot Rohr has warned against a backlash from Libya when the teams meet for another 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier later today.

The Super Eagles romped to an impressive 4-0 win over the North Africans when the teams clashed in Uyo on Saturday, with Odion Ighalo scoring a hat-trick.

The teams will meet in the return match in Sfax, Tunisia (as Libya cannot host games due to continuing political instability) and Rohr has hinted that his side may take a different tactical approach to counteract any determination to ‘right a wrong’ from the Mediterranean Knights.

“We have to expect a very difficult match in Sfax, but our plan is to do well and be very serious in the second leg,” said Rohr in the build-up to the matchday four clash in Group E.

“It will be more difficult, because this team lost 4-0. When you lose 4-0 and you have the chance to play three days later, you want to show that you are better than 4-0.

“That is why this is a dangerous result, because it is not a humiliation for them but they really want to show that they are better than this 4-0.

“We will approach the game differently and ensure we record another win.”