Nigeria’s Super Eagles claimed a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Tanzania in their opening Group C match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations at the Complexe Sportif de Fès on Tuesday.
Semi Ajayi gave Nigeria the lead in the 36th minute, heading home a precise cross from Alex Iwobi after sustained pressure from the Super Eagles.
Tanzania responded early in the second half, with Charles M’Mombwa volleying home to level the score. However, Ademola Lookman restored Nigeria’s advantage moments later with a brilliant strike from inside the box, sending the Super Eagles back in front.
The match saw a series of tactical changes and near-misses in the second half. Nigeria made double substitutions around the hour mark, introducing Fisayo Dele-Bashiru for Akor Adams and Moses Simon for Samuel Chukwueze. Later, Victor Osimhen was replaced by towering striker Paul Onuachu. Tanzania also rotated their lineup, bringing on Kelvin John, Dickson Job, and Haji Mnoga to inject energy as they chased an equaliser.
Tanzania had several opportunities, including a corner that saw defender Ibrahim Hamad miss a chance while picking up a cramp, and a counter led by Kelvin John that went wide. Both Zuberi Foba and Stanley Nwabali were called into action for Tanzania and Nigeria, respectively, producing key saves to keep the scoreline close.
Despite the win, Nigeria will need to maintain consistency as they continue their AFCON campaign. The Super Eagles, who failed to qualify for next year’s World Cup, remain among the favourites to lift the trophy in Morocco.
Final Score: Nigeria 2–1 Tanzania
