Tarek El Taib was outstanding for Libya

Karra scored the game's opening goal in the 30th minute of the encounter.

Controlling a midfield pass from captain Tarek El Taib with his chest, Karra beat an offside trap set by the Egyptians before lobbing the ball past onrushing Egypt goalkeeper Nader El Sayed.

After struggling to stamp their presence in the first half, Egypt pulled one back in the 52nd minute, when Amr Zaki took advantage of a goalmouth scramble to hit a close-range shot that gave the Libyan goalkeeper no chance.

When it appeared that the Libyans would be forced to share the points with Egypt, Ahmed Osman hit a low drive in the 85th minute that gave victory to the home side.

Osman connected with a cross from El Taib, who was the outstanding player for Libya.

The late goal sent the Libyans into jubilation, as they set off fireworks in the stadium.

Libya's win takes them to the top of Group Three, with 10 points from five matches.

However, they could be overtaken by Cameroon or Ivory Coast, who are away in Sudan and Benin respectively.

Libya's next qualifier will be on 25 March 2005, when they meet Egypt in Cairo.