By Ghazali Ibrahim
Nigeria kicked off their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 campaign with a hard‑fought 2–1 victory over Tanzania in their opening Group C match at the Complexe Sportif de Fès.
The Super Eagles took the lead in the 36th minute when Semi Ajayi powered in a header from an Alex Iwobi delivery, giving Nigeria a deserved advantage at the break. But Tanzania refused to go quietly: early in the second half, Charles M’Mombwa found the net to level the contest and send a scare through Nigeria’s ranks.
Just two minutes after Tanzania’s equaliser, Ademola Lookman restored Nigeria’s edge with a superb strike from outside the box, putting the Super Eagles back in front and ultimately on course for the win.
Nigeria dominated much of the match, with captain Wilfred Ndidi and midfielder Alex Iwobi driving play, while striker Victor Osimhen drew several chances but was unable to convert before being substituted later in the game.
The victory lifts Nigeria’s morale following their failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and sets the Super Eagles on a positive path in their quest for a fourth AFCON title.
Nigeria will next face Tunisia on December 27 as they continue their Group C campaign in Morocco.
