The stage is set for a historic showdown as the Super Eagles of Nigeria prepare to face Tanzania's Taifa Stars in their opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. In a bold pre-match declaration, Tanzania's head coach, Miguel Gamondi, has fired a direct warning to his Nigerian counterpart, Eric Chelle, signaling his team's intent to cause a major upset.
Gamondi's Bold Declaration: A Win Equals AFCON Title
The Argentine tactician made a striking analogy, stating that a victory for Tanzania against the mighty Super Eagles would feel like winning the entire AFCON tournament. This sets the tone for what promises to be a fiercely contested encounter at the Complexe Sportif de Fes on Tuesday, December 23. This match marks the first meeting between the two nations in 45 years, with Nigeria having emerged victorious in their previous encounter.
Tanzania, making their fourth appearance at the continental showpiece after 1980, 2019, and 2023, are yet to win an AFCON match. Their historical record stands at three draws and six losses from nine total games. Despite this, Coach Gamondi has instilled a belief that they can defy the odds in Group C, which also includes Tunisia and Uganda.
Focus on Neutralizing Super Eagles' Star-Studded Attack
Gamondi acknowledged the formidable threat posed by Nigeria's attack, singling out Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen. He revealed that his technical crew has developed specific tactical plans to cage the prolific forward. However, the 59-year-old coach was quick to note that the challenge extends beyond just one player.
"Nigeria still possesses players like Samuel Chukwueze, Ademola Lookman. If one of the players is neutralized, the other one is attacking," Gamondi cautioned. He emphasized the need for his team to be "tactically disciplined" while maintaining an attacking mentality, admitting that neutralizing Nigeria's quality would require "more than 100 percent effort."
Osimhen's Focus and Chelle's Ambition
On the Nigerian side, all eyes are on Victor Osimhen, who is just six goals away from equalling the legendary Rashidi Yekini's record of 37 goals for the Super Eagles. The striker, who recently surpassed Segun Odegbami's tally, sent a message to Nigerian fans in Morocco, expressing his readiness for the tournament.
Meanwhile, Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has set a clear target for his team. The Franco-Malian manager, who led Mali at the 2023 AFCON, has declared that the only objective for Nigeria is to conquer the continent and lift the trophy in Morocco.
As the historic clash approaches, the warning from Tanzania's camp adds an extra layer of intrigue. Can the Taifa Stars execute their plan and secure a historic first AFCON win against a star-studded Nigerian side, or will the Super Eagles' quality and Chelle's ambition prove too strong? The answer unfolds on December 23rd in Fez.
