By our Reporter
Nigeria kicked off their AFCON 2025 campaign with 2-1 victory defeating Tanzania in a match full of drama and late chances.
Hull City defender Semi Ajayi put the Super Eagles ahead in the first half with a towering header, only for Tanzania’s Charles M’Mombwa to equalise shortly after. Nigeria regained the lead just two minutes later when Ademola Lookman “curls home to restore Nigeria’s lead,” securing the decisive goal.
Victor Osimhen came close to extending Nigeria’s advantage, with one effort cleared off the line and another ruled out for offside, while Tanzania nearly equalised in the final minutes through Ibrahim Hamad, whose attempt went wide. Despite their efforts, the Young Africans could not find a second goal, finishing with 11 of 14 total shots on target between both sides.
Former Nigerian international Sunday Oliseh, commenting on Channel 4, praised both teams, saying, “I was very impressed with Akor Adams and the mobility he gave Nigeria, which allowed them to impose their game. Calvin Bassey was huge… This is probably the best Tanzania side I’ve seen play. Everything they did was well constructed. You could see the idea in everything they tried to do.”
The victory maintains Nigeria’s strong record in opening AFCON matches, having won 14 of their 21 opening games, and keeps alive their momentum after missing out on World Cup qualification. Tanzania, despite the loss, showed resilience and remain in contention for second place in the group or as one of the best third-placed teams.
