In a sensational transfer twist, Bayer Leverkusen’s top striker Victor Boniface has committed to Tottenham Hotspur, snubbing a move to Chelsea in the ongoing mid-season transfer window. Boniface, who has been in scintillating form for Leverkusen, was one of the most sought-after strikers in Europe, with both Premier League giants vying for his signature.
The 23-year-old Nigerian forward has been a standout performer in the Bundesliga, catching the attention of top clubs with his clinical finishing, physical presence, and ability to score from almost any position. Tottenham, in their quest to fill the void left by Harry Kane’s departure, have moved swiftly to secure the striker’s services, beating Chelsea in the process.
Boniface is expected to slot into the Spurs attack immediately, providing manager Ange Postecoglou with a reliable option upfront as they push for a top-four finish. The transfer is seen as a major coup for Tottenham, who have struggled with firepower in the absence of Kane and injuries to their frontline attackers.
Libya Announce 28-Man Squad for Crucial AFCON Qualifiers Against Nigeria
The Libyan Football Federation has revealed a 28-man squad for their upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Nigeria. The Mediterranean Knights are preparing to face the Super Eagles in a pivotal two-legged tie as they look to salvage their qualification campaign after a poor start.
Libya will travel to Nigeria for the first leg on October 11, with the return fixture scheduled for October 15 in Libya. These matches are critical for both nations, with Libya sitting bottom of Group D with just one point, while Nigeria leads the group.
Following a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Benin in their last qualifier, Libya made significant changes to their coaching setup, appointing Nasser Al-Hadiri as their new head coach. Al-Hadiri replaces Serbian tactician Micho, who was dismissed after the team’s underwhelming performances.
Among the notable inclusions in Al-Hadiri’s squad is 18-year-old Barcelona B striker Ahmed Elmsmari. The young forward, who previously played for Atlético Madrid and Rayo Vallecano’s youth teams, has been handed a second call-up despite not yet making his first-team debut for Barcelona. Elmsmari was an unused substitute in Libya’s last match but is expected to play a more prominent role in the upcoming clashes with Nigeria.
Libya’s task in securing qualification for next year’s AFCON is daunting, as they trail Nigeria by three points and must secure at least one victory to keep their hopes alive.
Libya’s 28-Man Squad for AFCON Qualifiers Against Nigeria:
- Goalkeepers: Murad Al-Wuheeshi (Al-Ahly Benghazi), Abdul Jawad Rizq (Al-Nasr), Mohammed Ayyad (Abu Salim)
- Defenders: Ahmed Ayyad (Al-Tahadi), Ali Youssef (Al-Afriqi Al-Tunisi), Ahmed Saleh (Al-Akhdar), Ahmed Al-Tarbi (Al-Ahly Tripoli), Magdy Mustafa Artiba (Al-Akhdar), Sobhi Al-Mabrouk Al-Dawi (Al-Ittihad), Mahdi Al-Kut (Al-Akhdar), Mohammed Al-Shtiwi (Al-Hilal), Sand Bin Ali (Al-Nasr)
- Midfielders: Al-Bahlol Abu Sahmain (Al-Ahly Benghazi), Badr Hassan (Al-Nasr), Suhaib Bin Suleiman (Al-Ahly Benghazi), Faisal Al-Badri (Al-Hilal), Muhannad Mustafa Al-Mabrouk (Al-Madina), Osama Al-Sharimi (Al-Suwaihli), Omar Al-Khoja (Al-Suwaihli), Nour Al-Din Al-Qalib (Al-Ahly Tripoli)
- Forwards: Ahmed Saad (Al-Hilal), Mohammed Al-Tabbal (Al-Nasr), Fadel Salama (Al-Ahly Benghazi), Ahmed Elmsmari (Barcelona B, Spain), Ezz El-Din Al-Mariami (Al Hilal), Moaz Issa (Al Ittihad), Ahmed Karaoua (Al Ahly Tripoli), Abdul-Miser Abu Shaiba (Al Ittihad)
Libya faces a tough challenge in these fixtures, and all eyes will be on their new coach and young talents like Elmsmari to see if they can turn their fortunes around in the AFCON qualification campaign.
