Africa Cup Of Nations | Tuesday December 23 | Group C
- Nigeria 2-1 Tanzania
Samuel Bright Ajayi struck first and Ademola Lookman sealed it as Nigeria began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a calm 2–1 win over Tanzania on Tuesday night in Fes, Morocco.
Playing through steady rain at the Complexe Sportif de Fès, the Super Eagles quickly took charge.
With Victor Osimhen leading the line, Nigeria dominated possession, kept Tanzania pinned back and patiently searched for a breakthrough.
It came just before halftime. Alex Iwobi’s measured cross from the left found Ajayi, who rose above his marker and powered a header into the net to reward Nigeria’s control.
Tanzania responded bravely after the break. Five minutes into the second half, Kokola M’Mombwa caught Nigeria off guard with a sharp finish to level the score and briefly lift the Taifa Stars.
The relief was short-lived. Two minutes later, Lookman restored Nigeria’s lead with a composed finish, reasserting their dominance and quieting Tanzania’s surge.
Tanzania continued to press and threatened again, but Nigeria stayed composed. Calvin Bassey’s timely intervention denied Mohamed Hussein, while Ibrahim Hamad later struck the side-netting as the Super Eagles managed the closing minutes with confidence.
The win puts Nigeria top of Group C ahead of their meeting with Tunisia on Saturday. For Tanzania, the search for a first AFCON victory goes on, though their spirited performance offered encouragement.
