by Nigerian News24 Correspondents
The Super Eagles kicked off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Tanzania, despite dominating proceedings and missing several chances.
Goals from Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman were enough to secure maximum points for Nigeria in Tuesday’s Group C opener in Fes, Morocco.
Nigeria, eager to respond after their painful failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, controlled the early stages of the encounter. Their intent was clear within the opening minutes, as Akor Adams rattled the woodwork with a powerful effort that nearly produced the opening goal.
The breakthrough eventually came as Ajayi put the Super Eagles ahead, and Victor Osimhen later came close to extending the lead, only for his attempt to be cleared off the line. Nigeria went into the break holding a slim 1-0 advantage over the Taifa Stars.
Early in the second half, Osimhen thought he had scored Nigeria’s second, but his effort in the 52nd minute was ruled out for offside. Shortly before that, Tanzania capitalised on a moment of defensive lapse to draw level through William M’Mombwa in the 50th minute.
The parity was short-lived, as Nigeria responded almost immediately. Just two minutes later, Lookman struck from close range at the edge of the goalmouth, firing past goalkeeper Zuberi Masudi to restore the Super Eagles’ lead.
Head coach Eric Chelle later brought on experienced winger Moses Simon in place of Adams as Nigeria sought to increase their cushion ahead of a potentially decisive clash against Tunisia.
Tanzania had a late opportunity to snatch an equaliser when a Mohamed Hussein cross slipped past goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, but substitute Kelvin John failed to make contact with the ball.
The win puts Nigeria on three points, and attention now shifts to Saturday’s showdown with Tunisia. Another victory against the Carthage Eagles would seal the Super Eagles’ qualification for the round of 16.