Yakubu Praises Improved Midfield as Super Eagles Beat Tanzania in AFCON 2025 Opener

Former Everton striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni has shared his thoughts on Nigeria’s opening win at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Super Eagles began their AFCON campaign with a 2-1 victory over Tanzania in their Group C match in Fes.

Nigeria took the lead in the 36th minute when defender Semi Ajayi headed in a fine cross from Alex Iwobi. Tanzania equalised through Charles M’mombwa, but Ademola Lookman restored Nigeria’s lead just two minutes later to secure all three points.

After the match, Yakubu praised Nigeria’s midfield display and said there was clear improvement in creativity.

“I can say today is much better,” Yakubu said. “You have Chukwueze and Alex Iwobi. They tried to create chances and they did create chances for Osimhen. He was just unlucky today. We still need creativity in midfield, but Chukwueze did very well.”

The former Nigeria striker had previously spoken about the Super Eagles’ lack of creative midfielders, but performances from Alex Iwobi and Samuel Chukwueze in deeper roles suggest progress is being made.

Nigeria dominated large parts of the game, with Chukwueze going close on several occasions. Victor Osimhen led the attack and worked tirelessly, remaining a constant threat despite failing to score.

Semi Ajayi capped an impressive performance by winning the Man of the Match award, while Lookman’s goal proved decisive.

With Tunisia up next on December 27, the Super Eagles have sent a strong early message to their Group C rivals