Super Eagles Defeat Tanzania 2-1 in AFCON 2025 Group C Opener

The Super Eagles of Nigeria began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Tanzania’s Taifa Stars in their opening Group C fixture in Morocco.

The encounter, played in Fes, saw Nigeria recover from a brief setback in the second half to secure all three points, boosting their chances of progressing from a competitive group.

Ejes Gist News reports that the Super Eagles delivered a largely dominant performance, controlling possession and creating the clearer chances, despite facing stubborn resistance from the Tanzanian side.

Ajayi Opens Scoring for Nigeria

Nigeria took the lead in the 37th minute following sustained pressure in the Tanzanian half. Defender Semi Ajayi rose highest to head home a well-delivered cross from Alex Iwobi, rewarding the Super Eagles for their aggressive start and territorial dominance.

Victor Osimhen came close to doubling Nigeria’s advantage before the break, but his effort was cleared off the line, while Akor Adams also struck the woodwork as Tanzania struggled to contain Nigeria’s attacking movement.

Nigeria vs Tanzania Full Time Results ( 2:1)

The first half ended with Nigeria firmly in control, leading 1-0 and limiting Tanzania to a handful of half-chances.

Tanzania Equalise After Restart

The Taifa Stars returned from the interval with renewed intensity and drew level shortly after the restart. A swift attacking move caught Nigeria momentarily out of shape, allowing Tanzania to convert clinically and make it 1-1.

Moments later, Osimhen found the back of the net for Nigeria, but the goal was ruled out for offside, delaying the Super Eagles’ push to regain the lead.

Lookman’s Strike Seals Victory

Nigeria restored their advantage in the 52nd minute through Ademola Lookman. The forward produced a powerful strike from outside the penalty area, beating the Tanzanian goalkeeper and reasserting Nigeria’s control over the match.

Following the goal, head coach Eric Chelle introduced fresh legs, bringing on Moses Simon and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru to maintain tempo and defensive balance.

Tanzania pushed forward in search of another equaliser, but Nigeria’s defence held firm, with goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali making key interventions to preserve the lead.

Strong Start to Group Campaign

The win places Nigeria in a strong position in Group C as the Super Eagles look to advance deep into the tournament. The performance highlighted Nigeria’s attacking depth and resilience, particularly in response to Tanzania’s second-half equaliser.

Nigeria will now turn attention to their next group fixture, aiming to build momentum and secure early qualification for the knockout stages of the 2025 AFCON.