Nigeria’s Super Eagles survived a second-half scare to secure a 2-1 victory over Tanzania in their AFCON 2025 Group C opener on Tuesday night.
Despite the torrential rain at the Fez Stadium, the match lived up to its billing, keeping fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
Nigeria dominated the early proceedings, but Tanzania’s goalkeeper, Zuberi Masudi, produced several world-class saves to deny Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams. The deadlock was finally broken in the 36th minute when Semi Ajayi rose highest to head home a pinpoint cross from Alex Iwobi.
The “Taifa Stars” emerged from the tunnel transformed in the second half. Just five minutes after the restart, Charles M’Mombwa stunned the Super Eagles, firing past Stanley Nwabali to level the score at 1-1.
However, the Tanzanian joy was short-lived. Barely two minutes later, Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman produced a moment of magic, weaving through the defense before unleashing a “banger” from the edge of the box to restore Nigeria’s lead.
Touchline Reactions
Eric Chelle (Nigeria Head Coach): “We showed great character to respond immediately after conceding. In tournaments like this, the three points are the only thing that matters. We had some defensive lapses in the rain, but I am proud of the offensive flow. Now, we prepare for our big brothers, Tunisia.”
Miguel Gamondi (Tanzania Head Coach): “I am proud of my boys. We played with courage against one of the best attacks in the world. We proved that Tanzania is not here just to participate. Losing a lead in two minutes was a lack of experience, but we will fix that before we face Uganda.”
Semi Ajayi (Man of the Match): “It’s always an honor to score for my country. The rain made it difficult, but we stayed focused. Tanzania is a very tough team, very physical, and they pushed us to the end.”
What a fantastic match! It was truly nail-biting to watch the Super Eagles overcome a determined Taifa Stars team – amazing performance by everyone involved.