2023 AFCON: Libya beat Botswana 1-0

Libya earned three points at home against Botswana in their first 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualification match on Wednesday in Benghazi, thanks to a lone strike from Al Ahli Tripoli forward, Saleh Al-Taher.

The striker pounced on the rebound after a Sanad Al-Warfali penalty attempt was saved, putting the Mediterranean Knights in first place in Group J ahead of Equatorial Guinea and Tunisia, who play later.

From the start, Libya held the higher possession statistics, limiting Botswana’s attacking options. Even after halftime, Libya maintained control of the game, and Belqasim Rajab came close to scoring when his volley went high and wide in the 47th minute.

The Libyans finally got their due in the 52nd minute when star Hamdou Elhouni raced away from Thato Kebue but was brought down in the box by the Botswana full defender. Though Goitseone Phoko superbly parried centre back Al-Warfali’s penalty, Al-Taher blasted home a wonderful low strike from a difficult angle.

Soon before full time, Botswana’s best chance to equalise came when Seakanyeng fired a 35-yard free kick that was pushed wide by Libya goalkeeper Muad Allafi, and the hosts held on for the three points.