Super Eagles defeats Tanzania 2-1 in AFCON 2025 opener

The Super Eagles kicked off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a hard-earned 2–1 win over Tanzania at the Complexe Sportif de Fès on Tuesday

Goals from Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman secured all three points for Nigeria in a competitive Group C clash, as Tanzania fought hard but left empty-handed.

Nigeria started strongly, with Akor Adams’ header hitting the crossbar early on, while Lookman came close in the 26th minute, only for his shot to be deflected for a corner. Moments later, Victor Osimhen beat the goalkeeper but was denied by Bakari Mwamnyeto.

The breakthrough came in the 36th minute when Alex Iwobi delivered a corner that Ajayi met with a powerful header to give the Super Eagles a deserved 1–0 lead. Samuel Chukwueze nearly doubled the advantage before halftime, but his deflected shot was brilliantly saved.

Nigeria thought they had extended their lead early in the second half when Osimhen scored, but VAR ruled it out for offside. Tanzania soon equalised as Novatus Miroshi set up Charles M’Mombwa, who calmly finished past Stanley Nwabali to make it 1–1.

The Super Eagles responded immediately, with Iwobi assisting Lookman for a stunning finish in the 52nd minute to restore Nigeria’s lead. Lookman came close to scoring again around the hour mark, but his effort was kept out, and further chances from Iwobi and Osimhen went wide or were saved.

Despite missed opportunities to seal the game, Nigeria managed the closing stages well to secure a vital opening win. The result puts the Super Eagles at the top of Group C ahead of their next match against Tunisia, while Tanzania will seek redemption against Uganda in their second group game.