Nigeria’s Super Eagles kicked off their 2025 Africa
Cup of Nations campaign with a hard-earned 2–1 victory over Tanzania in Fez,
though the performance suggested there is still room for improvement despite
the positive result.
While Nigeria extended their winning run against the
Taifa Stars to five matches, the contest proved far more demanding than
pre-match records suggested. Facing a Tanzanian side still chasing its
first-ever AFCON victory, the Super Eagles were pushed to their limits before
securing all three points.
Nigeria took the lead in the 36th minute when defender
Semi Ajayi powered home a header from an expertly delivered Alex Iwobi cross.
The goal marked Ajayi’s second for the national team, following his strike
against Lesotho in a 2023 World Cup qualifier.
Early in the second half, Victor Osimhen appeared to
have doubled Nigeria’s advantage, but his effort was ruled out for offside. The
setback proved costly moments later, as a brief lapse in concentration at the
back allowed Charles M’Mombwa to strike a first-time finish in the 52nd minute,
bringing Tanzania level.
The equaliser sparked renewed urgency from the Super
Eagles, and their response came through Ademola Lookman, who restored Nigeria’s
lead with a fine strike from just outside the penalty area.
Tanzania applied late pressure in search of another
equaliser, but Nigeria held firm to see out the victory. The win temporarily
places the Super Eagles at the top of Group C, pending the outcome of the
Tunisia versus Uganda fixture.
Nigeria will return to action on Saturday against
Tunisia before concluding their group-stage campaign against Uganda on December
30. Tanzania, still seeking their maiden AFCON win, will face Uganda on
Saturday and round off their group matches against Tunisia on December 30.
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