By Simon Asare
Fez, Dec. 23, GNA – Nigeria’s Super Eagles began their 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Tanzania’s Taifa Stars at the Fez Stadium on Tuesday.
Defender Oluwasemilogo Ajayi put Nigeria ahead in the 36th minute, rising to meet a Samuel Chukwueze cross with a powerful header after Victor Osimhen’s earlier effort was cleared off the line by Ibrahim Hamad.
Tanzania levelled five minutes after the break when Charles M’Mombwa pounced from close range as Nigeria’s defence switched off.
But the Super Eagles restored their lead almost immediately, with Ademola Lookman firing home a spectacular strike in the 52nd minute.
Alex Iwobi came close to adding a third for Nigeria but dragged his shot wide from inside the box.
Tanzania defender Ibrahim Hamad had a glorious opportunity to pull parity in the 86th minute but skied his effort from close range.
The result gives Nigeria an early advantage with all three points in a tough Group C, where Tunisia and Uganda meet later on Tuesday.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade