By Deborah Nnamdi
The Super Eagles of Nigeria began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a 2-1 victory over Tanzania in a Group C encounter played on Tuesday in Fes, Morocco.
Nigeria dominated large spells of the match but were wasteful in front of goal, relying on strikes from Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman to secure all three points against the Taifa Stars.
The Super Eagles took the lead in the 37th minute when West Bromwich Albion defender Ajayi rose highest to head home an Alex Iwobi cross, giving Nigeria a deserved advantage after sustained pressure. Earlier in the game, Akor Adams came close to opening the scoring but saw his effort crash against the woodwork, while Victor Osimhen also had a goal-bound attempt cleared off the line.
Nigeria went into the break 1-0 up, but Tanzania emerged stronger after the restart and capitalised on a moment of defensive slackness to draw level in the 50th minute through William M’Mombwa.
The equaliser did little to dampen Nigeria’s resolve, as the three-time African champions quickly restored their lead two minutes later. Lookman, the former African Player of the Year, fired past goalkeeper Zuberi Masudi from close range after positioning himself well inside the Tanzanian box.
Osimhen thought he had extended Nigeria’s lead shortly after, but his 52nd-minute strike was ruled out for offside. Head coach Eric Chelle later introduced Moses Simon in search of a more comfortable margin, but Nigeria were unable to add to their tally despite continued dominance.
Tanzania nearly grabbed a late equaliser three minutes from time when a Mohamed Hussein cross evaded goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, but substitute Kelvin John failed to make contact with the ball.
The victory provides a positive start for Nigeria, who are seeking redemption following their failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With three points secured, the Super Eagles now turn their attention to Saturday’s clash against Tunisia, where a win would guarantee qualification for the round of 16.
