The Super Eagles began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) journey with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Tanzania at the Complexe Sportif de Fès on Tuesday, Bold Sports reports.
Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman scored to hand Nigeria all three points in a competitive Group C encounter, as Tanzania fought valiantly but came up short.
Nigeria started the match on the front foot, with Akor Adams’ early header crashing off the crossbar. Lookman tested the defense in the 26th minute, only to see his shot deflected for a corner, and Victor Osimhen beat the keeper moments later but was denied by a determined Bakari Mwamnyeto.
The breakthrough arrived in the 36th minute when Alex Iwobi swung in a corner that Ajayi powered into the net, giving the Super Eagles a 1–0 lead. Samuel Chukwueze nearly doubled the advantage before halftime, but his deflected effort was brilliantly saved.
Nigeria thought they had increased their lead early in the second half through Osimhen, but VAR ruled the goal out for offside. Tanzania then drew level as Novatus Miroshi set up Charles M’Mombwa, who calmly finished past Stanley Nwabali to make it 1–1.
The Super Eagles struck back almost immediately, with Iwobi providing the assist for Lookman’s precise strike in the 52nd minute to restore Nigeria’s advantage. Lookman came close to scoring again around the hour mark, while further efforts from Iwobi and Osimhen were either saved or went wide.
Despite missing several chances to put the game beyond doubt, Nigeria controlled the final minutes to secure a crucial opening win. The victory places the Super Eagles atop Group C ahead of their next match against Tunisia, while Tanzania will aim for redemption against Uganda in their second group game.
