AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Super Eagles Target Six Points Against Tanzania

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are targeting maximum points from their two matches against Tanzania as they continue their fight to qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Nigeria will host Tanzania’s Taifa Stars at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday before travelling to Zanzibar for the return fixture on Tuesday, 17 November.

The three-time African champions need six points from the two games to boost their chances of securing a place at next year’s tournament, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.

Nigeria previously defeated Madagascar in Uyo on 25 September but suffered a 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau four days later, leaving their qualification hopes under pressure.

Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has stressed the importance of winning both matches, saying the players are determined to put the defeat to Guinea-Bissau behind them.

He said the team was in good spirits and focused on securing victories in both encounters.

Nigeria will, however, be without striker Victor Osimhen, who is recovering from an injury sustained while playing for his club, Galatasaray.

In his absence, Chelle will look to Ademola Lookman, Akor Adams, Tolu Arokodare and Moses Simon to provide the attacking threat against Tanzania.

The Super Eagles also have several options in defence and midfield, with Benjamin Fredricks, Chibuike Nwaiwu, Abdullahi Bewene, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Samson Tijani and Tochukwu Nnadi among the players expected to compete for places.

Tanzania, led by Argentine coach Miguel Ángel Gamondi, will depend on experienced striker Mbwana Samatta, alongside Simon Msuva, Selemani Mwalimu and Bernard Kamungo.

The return fixture will take place on Tuesday, 17 November, at the Amman Stadium in Zanzibar.

Nigeria’s immediate target is to secure victory in Uyo before travelling to Tanzania for another important encounter.