Nigeria’s Super Eagles made a winning start to their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign on Tuesday night, edging Tanzania 2–1 in a Group C encounter played at the Fez Stadium in Morocco.
Goals from defender Semi Ajayi and winger Ademola Lookman ensured the three-time African champions collected maximum points from their opening fixture, despite dominating large spells of the match without fully converting their chances.
Nigeria began the contest on the front foot, eager to make a strong statement after the disappointment of failing to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The early pressure nearly paid off inside the first 10 minutes when Akor Adams struck the woodwork, coming close to giving the Super Eagles an early lead.
Sustained pressure eventually told in the 37th minute. Ajayi rose above the Tanzanian defence to meet a well-delivered cross from Alex Iwobi, powering a header past the goalkeeper to put Nigeria ahead.
The Super Eagles continued to create opportunities, with Victor Osimhen coming close before halftime, only for his effort to be cleared off the line. Nigeria went into the break holding a deserved 1–0 advantage.
The second half started at a frantic pace. Osimhen thought he had doubled Nigeria’s lead shortly after the restart, but his goal was ruled out for offside.
Moments later, Tanzania capitalised on a lapse in the Nigerian defence, with William M’Mombwa slotting home in the 50th minute to bring the Taifa Stars level.
Nigeria’s response was swift. Just two minutes after conceding, Lookman restored the Super Eagles’ lead.
The Atalanta forward found space near the goalmouth and calmly fired past Tanzanian goalkeeper Zuberi Masudi to make it 2–1.
Head coach Eric Chelle introduced Moses Simon as the Super Eagles searched for a third goal to put the game beyond reach.
While Nigeria remained largely in control, Tanzania threatened late on and nearly equalised in the closing minutes, only for substitute Kelvin John to miss a clear opportunity after a dangerous cross evaded goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
The final whistle confirmed Nigeria’s first victory of the tournament, though questions remain about their finishing after several missed chances.
With three points secured, the Super Eagles will now focus on their next Group C fixture against Tunisia on Saturday.
A win in that encounter would seal Nigeria’s qualification for the round of 16 and further strengthen their bid for a fourth AFCON title.
