Nigeria began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign on a positive note with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Tanzania at the Stade de Fès on Tuesday night.
The Super Eagles started on the front foot, with Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman stretching the Tanzanian defence early on. Nigeria’s first clear chance came in the 11th minute when Samuel Chukwueze’s corner picked out Akor Adams, but his effort was kept out by the Tanzanian goalkeeper.
Tanzania tried to respond through long-range attempts, but Stanley Nwabali remained alert in goal to keep Nigeria level.
The breakthrough eventually arrived in the 36th minute. Alex Iwobi delivered a well-weighted cross into the box, and Semi Ajayi rose highest to nod home a powerful header, putting Nigeria ahead.
Despite playing in wet conditions, the Super Eagles controlled much of the first half and went into the break with a 1–0 lead.
Tanzania stunned Nigeria shortly after the restart when M’Mombwa equalised in the 50th minute, calmly finishing a lofted ball into the bottom-left corner.
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Nigeria’s response was swift. Just two minutes later, Lookman picked up the ball outside the penalty area and unleashed a precise left-footed strike that beat goalkeeper Masudi to restore the Super Eagles’ advantage.
As the game opened up, Nigeria introduced Simon Moses, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Paul Onuachu, while Tanzania made attacking changes of their own. The East Africans pushed for another equaliser and nearly found it in the 83rd minute, but John’s low shot narrowly missed the target.
Nigeria stayed composed in the closing stages to secure all three points and a strong start to their Group C campaign. Tanzania will now turn their attention to their next match as they seek a quick response.
