- Safiu Kehinde
The Super Eagles of Nigeria has commenced their 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) journey on a brighter note as they rode over Tanzania in the Group C opener.
The three-time AFCON champions took on Tanzania at the Fez Stadium in Morocco.
As largely expected, the Super Eagles dominated the gameplay right from the start with Akor Adams coming close to scoring an opener in the 8th minute.
The Sevilla forward was however denied the goal scoring opportunity by Tanzania’s goalkeeper, Zuberi Foba.
Adams would again keep the Tanzanians on the heels as he hit the woodwork with a header two minutes after.
The Tafia stars kept the Super Eagles at bay until the 34th minute when Victor Osimhen’s effort was pulled out for a corner kick.
With Super Eagles opting for a short corner kick, Alex Iwobi lobbed in a cross into Tanzania’s box.
Nigeria’s defender, Semi Ajayi, headed home the cross to put Nigeria into the lead in the 35th minute before the halftime whistle.
Returning back for the second half, the Super Eagles picked up from where they left with Osimhen coming close to doubling Super Eagles lead in the 46th minute.
His goal was however ruled offside.
Tanzania would capitalise on the opportunity to pull a leveler courtesy Charles M’Mombwa’s 49th minute goal.
The Tafia Stars’ celebration was however short-lived as former African footballer of the year, Ademola Lookman, pulled Nigeria back into the lead with a sublime shot in the 51st minute.
Tanzania came close to equalise again, but their player’s effort went wide and also ruled offside.
The game ended 2-1 in favour of Nigeria as the three-time AFCON champions secured all three points.