AFCON 2025: Super Eagles open Group C with narrow win over Tanzania

Nigeria’s Super Eagles began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a 2–1 victory over Tanzania on Tuesday night, relying on a second-half strike from Ademola Lookman to secure three points in their Group C opener in Fes, Morocco.

The match came weeks after Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and the Super Eagles entered the tournament under scrutiny. Head coach Eric Chelle’s side dominated possession for long spells but were tested by a disciplined Tanzanian team that stayed competitive until the final whistle.

Nigeria took the lead in the 36th minute when defender Semi Ajayi headed home from an Alex Iwobi cross, capitalising on sustained pressure. The Super Eagles thought they had doubled their advantage seconds after the restart, but Victor Osimhen’s close-range finish was ruled out for offside following a VAR check.

Tanzania drew level in the 52nd minute through Charles M’Mombwa, who finished first time after a neat attacking move that caught Nigeria’s defence out of shape. The equaliser briefly unsettled the Super Eagles, but they responded almost immediately.

Lookman restored Nigeria’s lead moments later, collecting a pass from Iwobi outside the penalty area and driving a low shot beyond goalkeeper Zuberi Foba. The Atalanta forward’s goal proved decisive, as Nigeria managed the closing stages despite late pressure from Tanzania.

Osimhen, who led the line alongside Akor Adams, had several chances to extend the lead but was often frustrated by Tanzania’s defensive organisation and the alert goalkeeping of Foba. Nigeria also turned to their bench in the final stages, introducing Paul Onuachu to help see out the result.

Tanzania, captained by Mbwana Samatta, threatened on the counter and came close to an equaliser late on, with Ibrahim Hamad missing a clear opportunity in stoppage time. Despite the defeat, the East Africans remained competitive throughout.

Before the match, Tanzania’s interim coach, Miguel Gamondi, had acknowledged the scale of the task facing his team. “I’m very realistic about the possibilities. Maybe Nigeria have 99 per cent, but you never know,” he said. “If we do what we need to do and are able to win, beating Nigeria would feel like winning the AFCON for us, especially at the start of the tournament.”

Nigeria held on to claim the win, giving them a positive start in Group C as they look to build momentum in Morocco.