AFCON 2025: Super Eagles Beat Tanzania in Group C Opener
Nigeria began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a hard-fought win over Tanzania on Tuesday in Fez, picking up three important points in Group C.
The Super Eagles started brightly and almost took an early lead in the opening 10 minutes when Akor Adams was played through on goal. His cut-back was pushed out for a corner, and from the resulting kick, Adams headed the ball against the crossbar.
Victor Osimhen fired over the bar in the 14th minute as Nigeria continued to press. In the 22nd minute, the Super Eagles appealed for a penalty after Ademola Lookman went down in the box, but the referee waved play on.
Nigeria created more chances, and in the 31st minute Alex Iwobi sent Osimhen through on goal. The striker took the ball past the goalkeeper, Zuberi Foba, but from a tight angle his cross failed to find a teammate. Four minutes later, Osimhen again rounded the goalkeeper, only for a Tanzanian defender to clear the ball off the line.
The pressure finally told in the 35th minute when Semi Ajayi gave Nigeria the lead. The defender rose highest to head home a well-delivered cross from Alex Iwobi.
Before the break, Samuel Chukwueze and Osimhen both came close to doubling Nigeria’s advantage, but goalkeeper Zuberi Foba made fine saves to keep Tanzania in the game. The first half ended 1-0 in favour of Nigeria.
Osimhen thought he had scored shortly after the restart, but his effort was ruled out for offside. Tanzania then drew level in the 49th minute when Charles M’Mombwa finished from close range after a neat passing move.
Nigeria responded quickly. Just three minutes later, Ademola Lookman restored the Super Eagles’ lead with a powerful strike from outside the penalty area.
The Super Eagles continued to create chances. Lookman was denied by Foba in the 60th minute, while Alex Iwobi narrowly missed the target with a long-range effort in the 65th minute.
Nigeria managed the game well for the remainder of the match to secure the win and a positive start to their tournament.
The victory continues Nigeria’s strong record in opening AFCON matches. The Super Eagles have now won 13 of their 20 tournament openers and remain unbeaten in their last three.
Nigeria will face Tunisia in their next Group C match on December 27, 2025. Group C also includes Tanzania and Uganda.
