Nigeria no too run away with the scoreline, but their 2-1 win against Tanzania for AFCON 2025 send strong message to rest of Africa.
The Super Eagles, playing their opening Group F fixture, dominate proceedings and show flashes of quality wey fit make dem genuine title contenders. Goals from Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman secure all three points.
1. Nigeria Show Dominance
Coming into the tournament, Super Eagles dey under pressure after failing to qualify for 2026 World Cup. Against Tanzania, dem play like team wey determined to respond. Scoreline no tell full story – Nigeria control possession, dictate tempo, and spend long periods in opposition half. Dis dominance confirm say dem dey among favourites not just to progress from Group F, but also to challenge for AFCON crown.
2. Midfield Control Was Foundation
Nigeria grip game from midfield. Captain Wilfred Ndidi provide balance and leadership, while Alex Iwobi help link play between midfield and attack. Super Eagles consistently win second balls and recycle possession quickly, making am hard for Taifa Stars to settle or launch meaningful counter-attacks.
3. Chukwueze’s Energy Change the Dynamic
Coach Eric Chelle decide to leave out Frank Onyeka and hand start to Samuel Chukwueze. AC Milan loanee justify call with lively display, showing energy and creativity. Chukwueze inject pace, drive at defenders, and appear for most dangerous moments. Tanzania struggle cope with him, and only fine save from goalkeeper Zuberi Masudi deny him first-half goal.
4. Osimhen Fail To Find Target
Despite dominance, Nigeria miss several clear chances, especially first half. Victor Osimhen guilty of wayward finishing even though Tanzanian defence sometimes tight. His inability to score keep Tanzania in game longer than expected, highlighting area Nigeria must improve to go deep in tournament.
5. Defensive Frailties Na Still Concern
Game take tense turn after Tanzania equalise. Nigeria repeat habit of conceding avoidable, often late goals. Costly turnover by Zaidu Sanusi invite pressure, back line fail recover in time. Central pairing Calvin Bassey and Samuel Ajayi caught out, allow Tanzania score. Reminder say defensive concentration remain concern for Super Eagles.
6. Tanzania’s Goalkeeper Keep am Respectable
Goalkeeper Zuberi Masudi make crucial saves, deny Chukwueze and prevent heavier defeat. Scoreline no fully reflect Nigeria dominance, reminder say finishing efficiency go vital against stronger opposition.
Nigeria at AFCON: Focus Shifts to Tunisia
With Tuesday’s game done, Super Eagles go hope make it two wins in a row when dem face Tunisia on Saturday.