Super Eagles Soar Past Tanzania in Thrilling AFCON 2025 Opener as Nigeria Begin Campaign with Grit and Promise

Nigeria began their Africa Cup of Nations 2025 journey with a tense but deserved 2–1 victory over a spirited Tanzania side, setting the tone for what promises to be a demanding group-stage campaign. In a match packed with energy, tactical battles and late drama, the Super Eagles showed both their quality and their vulnerabilities, edging past opponents who refused to play the role of underdogs.

The encounter started at a frenetic pace, with Nigeria asserting early dominance through controlled possession and sharp movement across the midfield. Determined to make a statement in their opening fixture, the Super Eagles pressed high and forced Tanzania into early defensive duties. Their intent paid off in the first half when Hull City defender Semi Ajayi rose above the Tanzanian backline to power home a towering header, giving Nigeria a deserved lead and igniting celebrations among fans who have been eager for redemption after recent disappointments on the international stage.

Ajayi’s goal appeared to settle Nigeria briefly, but Tanzania responded with admirable composure. Rather than retreating, the East Africans pushed forward with confidence, exploiting moments of hesitation in Nigeria’s defensive shape. Their persistence was rewarded shortly after when Charles M’Mombwa found the net, drawing Tanzania level and stunning the Super Eagles faithful. The equaliser injected belief into the Tanzanian side and transformed the contest into a more open and unpredictable affair.

Nigeria, however, showed character in their response. Barely two minutes after conceding, the Super Eagles struck again through Ademola Lookman, whose moment of brilliance proved decisive. Receiving the ball just outside the area, Lookman curled a precise effort beyond the reach of the Tanzanian goalkeeper, restoring Nigeria’s lead and underlining his growing importance to the national team. The goal not only shifted momentum back in Nigeria’s favour but also highlighted the individual quality within the squad when collective rhythm briefly falters.

As the match progressed, Nigeria looked capable of extending their advantage. Victor Osimhen, leading the line with his usual intensity, came agonisingly close on multiple occasions. One effort was dramatically cleared off the line, while another was ruled out for offside, moments that summed up both Nigeria’s attacking threat and their occasional frustration in front of goal. Despite failing to add to the scoreline, Osimhen’s movement and physical presence continued to trouble the Tanzanian defence, creating space for teammates and forcing errors.

Tanzania, to their credit, refused to concede defeat quietly. The Young Africans displayed impressive organisation and bravery, moving the ball with purpose and showing a clear tactical identity. Their approach nearly paid off in the closing stages when Ibrahim Hamad found himself with a golden opportunity to equalise. His effort, however, drifted narrowly wide, sending a wave of relief through the Nigerian bench as the clock ticked down.

By the final whistle, both teams had registered 11 shots on target from a combined total of 14 attempts, a statistic that reflected the open and competitive nature of the contest. It was a game defined not just by goals but by intensity, resilience and moments of fine margins that ultimately favoured Nigeria.

Former Nigerian international Sunday Oliseh, analysing the match on Channel 4, offered high praise for both sides. He singled out Akor Adams for his mobility and influence, noting how his movement allowed Nigeria to impose themselves during key phases of the game. Oliseh also highlighted the defensive solidity of Calvin Bassey, describing his performance as “huge,” while acknowledging Tanzania’s impressive display. According to Oliseh, this was one of the strongest Tanzanian teams he had seen, commending their structure, creativity and clear tactical ideas throughout the match.

For Nigeria, the victory carries significance beyond the three points. It extends their strong tradition of opening AFCON campaigns positively, marking their 14th win in 21 tournament openers. More importantly, it provides a psychological boost for a team eager to rebuild confidence and momentum after the disappointment of missing out on World Cup qualification. The Super Eagles will take encouragement from their attacking moments and their ability to respond quickly after setbacks, even as they acknowledge areas that need tightening ahead of tougher tests.

Tanzania, meanwhile, will draw confidence from a performance that showcased their growth and competitiveness on the continental stage. Despite the loss, their resilience and tactical discipline suggest they remain very much in contention for progression, whether by challenging for second place in the group or positioning themselves among the best third-placed teams. Their display against one of Africa’s traditional heavyweights served notice that they are no longer content with merely participating.

As AFCON 2025 unfolds, Nigeria’s opening win places them in a favourable position, but it also serves as a reminder that success will require consistency, sharper finishing and defensive concentration. For fans and neutrals alike, the match delivered drama, quality and a glimpse of the excitement that lies ahead in the tournament. With confidence restored and belief renewed, the Super Eagles march on, knowing that every performance from here on will shape their quest for continental glory.